The Tokyo 2020 Organising Committee today revealed that a record 3.1 million tickets were requested during the first Paralympic Games ticket lottery.

The number is three times more than were requested during the same period for the London 2012 Paralympics and far exceeds the 2.3 million tickets available for the Games.

International Paralympic Committee (IPC) President Andrew Parsons said: “I am ecstatic, this is completely unprecedented and proves the huge interest there is for the Paralympics in Tokyo and Japan. It shows we are on course for the best Paralympics yet.

“It will be hugely motivating for the Para athletes to compete in front of packed stadiums and to see how an entire country embraces the Paralympic Games in such a unique and fantastic way.

“I have said it before and will repeat it again; I am certain Tokyo 2020 will produce the biggest transformational impact on society than any of the previous editions of the Paralympic Games.

"The interest in the Games is a result of the fantastic work by Tokyo 2020, national government, Tokyo Metropolitan Government, media and partners. We could not be more pleased."

Around 600,000 tickets were purchased in the first Paralympic ticket lottery with the next one set for 15-29 January 2020.

Tickets may only be purchased via authorised channels and Tokyo 2020 urges all prospective ticket purchasers to be aware of unauthorised or potentially fraudulent ticket offerings.

Applications from residents of Japan can only be made on the Tokyo 2020 Official Ticket Website. Pre-registration via the TOKYO 2020 ID portal is necessary to enter the lottery; this can be done at https://id.tokyo2020.org/.

Tickets for all sports are being offered at affordable prices which aim to encourage people to attend with her family and friends.

Seats at competitive events will be priced from just JPY 900 and will cost no more than JPY 7,000. This is part of the Organising Committee’s commitment to enhance the family atmosphere at the Paralympic Games and attract as many young spectators as possible. Tickets for the Opening and Closing Ceremonies will cost from JPY 8,000 up to JPY 150,000.