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.
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
Special Olympics Health Messenger David Duncan Gives Opening Remarks at the Launch of the WHO’s Global Initiative on Health Equity for Persons with Disabilities at the United Nations
Today, Special Olympics is looking back at all the fathers, father-figures, and grandfathers who, through the power of sport, have helped raise, support, coach, and love Special Olympics athletes around the world.
2 Min Read
Special Olympics Athletes Enhance Skills with Coaching at Professional Clubs
Through the Special Champions League project, funded by the Erasmus+ Programme of the European Union, eight professional football clubs developed teams for almost 550 athletes with intellectual disabilities.
2 Min Read
The House that Started Special Olympics Is Finally Being Recognized
The following is an excerpt from The Washington Post article, “This house started the Special Olympics. It’s finally being recognized”, that explores the legacy of Timberlawn, the Maryland home where Eunice Kennedy Shriver launched Camp Shriver in 1962—planting the seeds for what would become Special Olympics.
1 Min Read
The ‘R-Word’ is Back. How a Slur Became Renormalized
On an April episode of “The Joe Rogan Experience,” the host used a slur within the first 45 seconds of the show.
9 Min Read