The IWAS World Games 2015, was officially declared closed at a celebratory Closing Ceremony on Friday (2 October) at Yug Sport arena in Sochi, Russia. The Ceremony kicked off with national team leaders entering the arena parading their national flags while many wore their medals from the week’s achievements. The nations were welcomed to rapturous applause from athletes, national delegations and international dignitaries.

The Russian flag was raised to the sound of the Russian national anthem followed by an exciting dance performance.

Following the introduction of dignitaries and organisation representatives, IWAS President, Paul DePace addressed the delegations: ‘I would like to express my gratitude for the great work in the preparation and delivery of the Games to the Local Organizing Committee, the supervisors and all officers of the Ministry of Sport of Russia, the Russian Paralympic Committee, All-Russian Federation for people with physical impairments, administration of Krasnodar Region and the city of Sochi. I am grateful for the attention paid to everyone without exception, to all delegations and particularly, each athlete. Most sincere words of appreciation goes to our volunteers for their job in the delivery of these Games. Thank you all!’

The Deputy Chairman of the Russian Federation Government Mr. Arkadiy Dvorkovich remarked:

“I am glad to see you in Sochi and congratulate you on successful performances at the World Games. Your participation in the Games is a victory in itself. The victory over yourself and over circumstances. You showed a great will and courage, the professional skills and strong character that should serve as a role model for every athlete.  The results achieved by all athletes has impressed me greatly.’

The President of the Russian Paralympic Committee Mr.Vladimir Lukin said:

‘The World Games of the International Wheelchair and Amputee Sports Federation 2015 held in Russia in Sochi city will be marked in history. There is no doubt they have contributed greatly in the strengthening of the International cooperation, the promotion of Paralympic values and further development of the Paralympic Movement in many countries worldwide’

The Minister of Sport of the Russian Federation, Mr. Vitaly Mutko, declared the IWAS World Games 2015 closed and a performance of ‘We Are The Champions’ by a Russian vocal group, drew the Ceremony and Games to a dynamic and fitting close.