In the News
In every corner of the earth, Special Olympics is changing the lives of people with intellectual disabilities. These news stories come from all around the world.
Special Olympics Announces the 2025 – 2027 Global Youth Leadership Council
In celebration of International Youth Day, Special Olympics is proud to announce the newly selected 2025 – 2027 Global Youth Leadership Council (GYLC).
1 Min Read
Football For All: Special Olympics and UEFA Mark 26 Years of Partnership at UEFA Fan Festivals Across Europe
Football stands as one of the most beloved team sports among Special Olympics athletes across Europe and Eurasia, and UEFA’s support has been instrumental in elevating these opportunities ever since the establishment of our partnership in 1999.
2 Min Read
Sports Business Journal: Special Olympics Names New President & CEO
The following is an excerpt from Sport Business Journal’s article, “Special Olympics names new president & CEO” announcing David Evangelista, the current President and Managing Director of Special Olympics Europe Eurasia, as the new Special Olympics International President and CEO beginning 1 January 2026.
1 Min Read
Special Olympics Announces David Evangelista as New Chief Executive Officer
The following is an excerpt from the press release, “Special Olympics Announces David Evangelista as New Chief Executive Officer” detailing the appointment of David Evangelista as Special Olympics International’s President and Chief Executive Officer effective 1 January 2026.
2 Min Read
A Family That Speaks Up
At the heart of Abdel Rahman’s support system is Shahd, Abdel Rahman’s older sister, who realized early that being his sibling meant more than just growing up together; it meant standing up for him.
3 Min Read
Special Olympics Europe Eurasia and the European Canoe Association (Paddle Europe) Sign Historic Partnership Agreement
The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed today will see both organisations working even more closely together to bring the joy of inclusive paddle sport to athletes with intellectual disabilities across the region.
1 Min Read
Tender Hearts
When Su Anne Lee was younger, she was quiet, timid, even.But today, she greets customers at a bustling café, shares her story with others, and speaks on behalf of people with intellectual disabilities across Malaysia.
3 Min Read
Special Olympics Asia Pacific Forges First Partnership with lululemon
The new collaboration will drive crucial fitness and wellness programming for people with intellectual disabilities across Malaysia and Vietnam
2 Min Read
Now Streaming on Kanopy
For the first time ever, Kanopy streams Special Olympics produced short documentaries.
1 Min Read
The Unique Spirit of Rugby Returns to Paris!
300 athletes, 26 teams, five countries—as inclusive rugby booms across the region, the Special Olympics France International Flag-Rugby Tournament takes Paris by storm!
3 Min Read
World Refugee Day 2025: Olubunmi’s Story of Healing and Hope in Madrid
This World Refugee Day, we’re celebrating the remarkable story of Olubunmi and her family—originally from Nigeria and now living in Madrid, Spain—who have used the power of sport, dance and music to bring health, healing and enduring hope into their lives.
4 Min Read
Special Olympics Norway Athletes Honored by Prince Sverre Magnus
Special Olympics Norway athletes who competed in Special Olympics World Winter Games Turin 2025 were honored in a reception in Oslo by Prince Sverre Magnus on 28 May for their achievements in sport.
1 Min Read