IPC appoints Professor Wayne Derman as Medical Director (External)

The International Paralympic Committee (IPC) has appointed Professor Wayne Derman, a specialist sports physician and Head of the Division of Sport and Exercise Medicine at Stellenbosch University, South Africa, as its Medical Director (External). With an extensive background in sports medicine and a commitment to athlete health, Professor Derman brings extensive expertise to the role.

Professor Derman joined the IPC Medical Committee in 2011, serving as its Chair from 2023 to 2024. He recently held the role as IPC Medical Director at the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games. He also served as Chief Medical Officer for the South African Team at the Sydney 2000 Olympic Games and Athens 2004 Olympic Games, as well as for the South African Paralympic Team at the Beijing 2008 Paralympic Games and London 2012 Paralympic Games.

Professor Derman’s research primarily focuses on injury prevention and athlete health, particularly in athletes with disabilities. As a prominent figure on the international academic stage, Professor Derman has made significant contributions to the field of Paralympic sports medicine.

As IPC Medical Director (External), Professor Derman will oversee the organisation’s medical strategy and research initiatives, including Games-time injury and illness surveys, sport science, biomechanics, and equipment research. He will also plan and coordinate medical services for the Paralympic Games in conjunction with local organising committees.

Mike Peters, the IPC’s Chief Executive Officer (CEO), said: “We are thrilled to welcome Professor Wayne Derman as our new Medical Director. His extensive expertise in sports medicine, his demonstrated commitment to the Paralympic Movement and his unwavering allegiance to athlete health and safety, make him an invaluable addition to our team.

“As a member of the IPC Medical Committee during the COVID-19 pandemic, Wayne played a pivotal role in ensuring athlete safety through evidence-based protocols and collaborative decision-making. His athlete-first focus has always ensured that medical decisions prioritise the well-being, performance, and experience of the athletes, who are at the heart of the Paralympic Movement.

“I am confident that under his leadership, the IPC will continue to set the highest standards in medical care and athlete support.”

In accepting the role, Professor Wayne Derman said, “I am deeply honoured to take on the role of Medical Director. I look forward to working with an exceptional team to advance our standards of care and support for all athletes.”

Professor Derman has a fellowship from the American College of Sports Medicine. He has received numerous accolades throughout his career including the Val Schreire Award for Outstanding Investigator in the Cardiovascular Field in Southern Africa and the Paul Harris Award from Rotary International for community contribution. He was honoured with the Department of Health and Health Professionals Council Award for Excellence in Health Care in South Africa.