Abstract
This article explores the historical and modern relationship between the Olympic and Paralympic Games, focusing on their ongoing separation and partial convergence. It argues that while the Olympic Games have traditionally been regarded as the peak of elite sport, the Paralympic Games have grown as a parallel event for athletes with disabilities, originating from post-WWII rehabilitation sport and the Stoke Mandeville Games before becoming a global multi-sport event. The article traces key developments in the institutional ties between the Games, examining how symbolic and cultural elements, especially the Olympic and Paralympic flame and torch relay, have been used to signal increasing alignment.