6 July 2026 - Inclusion shined brighter tonight in the City of Light as the Opening Ceremony of the Special Olympics Unified Football World Cup Paris 2026 officially marked the start of the tournament.
The excitement was palpable and felt by fans and supporters worldwide as the Parade of Athletes, 324 footballers from 23 nations, made their way around Charléty Stadium, displaying both national pride and unity at the same moment. Each delegation walked with their two coaches and full teams. Each team is made up of Special Olympics athletes (9 for men’s, 6 for women’s) and Unified partners (teammates without intellectual disabilities) (7 for men’s, 5for women’s).
The men’s team from Special Olympics France, as the host nation, was the first delegation to walk out while the French women’s team had the honor of being the final team to circle the track.
The Special Olympics Guatemala’s women’s team looked ready to defend their title as the Division 1 champions of the 2022 Unified Football World Cup in Detroit. The Special Olympics Jamaica footballers, having won on the men’s side, also have their winning reputation on the line.
The loudest team of the evening, demonstrating the most team spirit, was heard from Special Olympics Paraguay who made their presence known in the staging area, tunnel, and in the Parade chanting and singing with one another, volunteers, and fans. Their enthusiasm was electric and raised the energy of the stadium for everyone.
After the Special Olympics virtual flag was raised and the anthem played, Sargent Shriver Global Messenger Margaret Turley representing Special Olympics Europe Eurasia delivered opening remarks. “This Unified Football World Cup is about so much more than football,” she reminded everyone. “When athletes with and without intellectual disabilities compete together as teammates, they show the world what inclusion really looks like. They break down barriers, challenge stereotypes, build friendships, and prove that everyone belongs. That is the power of sport!”
Turley then presented the official symbol of our tournament, the Special Olympics football, to Emmanuel Grégoire, Mayor of Paris.
As with every Special Olympics event, the official oaths were recited. Garrett Utz, a football athlete-official from Special Olympics USA, read the officials’ oath. The coaches’ oath was read by Mariana Campos Molian from Special Olympics Costa Rica. Special Olympics France athlete Jutiina Bokko and Unified Partner Louana Exilie recited the athlete’s oath. When they recited the inspirational words “Let me win. But if I cannot win, let me brave in the attempt,” cheers were heard around the stadium.
The oaths were followed by remarks from tournament organizing president, Jacques Rivoal who said, “Above all, dear players and coaches of the sport teams, this night and the five days to come are yours because this Cup is yours in one of the most sustainable and inclusive metropolises worldwide!”
Special Olympics CEO, David Evangelista had this to say during his first address at a global tournament as CEO, “What an idea to celebrate tonight, the idea of inclusion. Football is called the most beautiful sport. I contend that it celebrates tonight the most beautiful movement. A movement that celebrates in villages and cities, a movement that celebrates in stadiums and sports centers all around the world. But here, football shows us something a bit more powerful. Here, football reminds us that inclusion is a contact sport.”
Evangelista introduced the French Minister of Sport, Youth and Community Life, Mrs. Marina Ferrari for closing remarks and the declaration of the official opening of the Unified Football World Cup. She addressed the entire Special Olympics movement. “You are bestowing a tremendous honor upon us. This trust distinguishes France as a host of major international sporting events. But above all, it recognizes our aspiration: to be a sporting nation that views sport as a right, an outlet, and a vehicle for health, education, and inclusion.”
The ceremony came to an end with the playing of the French national anthem and virtual raising of French flag. But the evening wasn’t over. The men’s French and Senegalese teams were escorted to the pitch for the first match of the tournament followed by the France versus Cote d'Ivoire women’s match.
After 60 minutes of play, Senegal beat out host France 6-0. France is set to face Brazil in their next match on 8 July at 11:30am at Charlety Stadium. Senegal
The women’s opening game matched the men’s in goals scored with France shutting out Cote d’Ivoire 6-0. France’s women’s team plays Thailand on 7 July at 11:00am while Cote d’Ivoire prepares to take on Costa Rica at 9:45am
Follow all the matches, results, updates and stories here.
