Stories
These global stories are about the power of Special Olympics to inspire hope, confidence and courage. Special Olympics changes the lives of our athletes with intellectual disabilities but also our coaches, families, volunteers and others who have the opportunity to take part.
FanSided Covers the 2026 Special Olympics USA Games
The 2026 Special Olympics USA Games are finally here!
1 Min Read
USA Games Are Underway, Practice Begins
The 2026 Special Olympics USA Games are officially underway in the Twin Cities, and there’s much excitement around town.
1 Min Read
2026 Special Olympics USA Games: Let the Games Begin!
It's a crisp, sun-kissed sky in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Just past the plaza entrance of Huntington Bank Stadium, the city skyline sits perfectly in the end zone corner.
1 Min Read
Happy Father’s Day!
This Father’s Day, Special Olympics would like to thank all the dads who participate in this incredible movement! Your support and cheers mean so much to the athletes who compete and your impact is felt by all.
1 Min Read
Two by Two, AALE Pairs Will Be Everywhere at the USA Games
An Innovative Way for Athlete Leaders to Learn Debuts Today
5 Min Read
A Second Chance at Life
A powerful story of how the Special Olympics Unified with Refugees initiative offers refugee children with intellectual disabilities a pathway from exclusion to belonging.
4 Min Read
ESPN’s Coverage of 2026 Special Olympics USA Games
From June 20 – 26, the 2026 Special Olympics USA Games will bring nearly 3,000 athletes and 1,500 coaches from all 50 states to Minneapolis to compete across 16 Olympic-type team and individual sports. ESPN will provide 48 hours of live competition coverage on ESPN+ through the ESPN App, featuring events including athletics, swimming, powerlifting and flag football, along with ABC preview and review programming.
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The Caribbean Leadership Academy Launches
Eighteen leaders from six Caribbean islands gathered together in Saint Kitts and Nevis, not in a massive conference hall, but in a space built for conversation, honesty, and growth.
6 Min Read
Special Olympics Athletes React to AI Bias Study Led by Special Olympics
Special Olympics Athlete-Spokespersons see dangers and opportunities highlighted in a new study on how AI reinforces subtle but widespread bias against those with intellectual disabilities.
1 Min Read
Building the Foundation for an Inclusive Future
Celebrated annually on 11 June, International Day of Play reminds us that play isn’t just fun; it’s an essential part of childhood development. It’s how children build confidence, communication skills, physical coordination, and social-emotional development—laying the foundation for lifelong learning and well-being. Early childhood play programs like Special Olympics Young Athletes bring this to life.
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Sport at the Heart of Social Inclusion and Education: Niger Joins the Special Olympics Global Coalition for Inclusion
Ministry of Population, Social Action and National Solidarity commits to boosting inclusive sport and education in Niger
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They’ve Been There. They Want to Change It.
Eleven Projects that Could Change Special Olympics from the Ground Up
5 Min Read