Canada

For the second time since its inception, the Special Olympics Unified Football World Cup implemented Unified co-captains for each team.

Special Olympics Slovakia finished fourth in the Division 1 competition after a dramatic Bronze medal match ended in a 4–4 tie, with SO Thailand securing the medal with a 3–1 penalty victory.

History in the making! 🙌 Watch what happened when 25 Special Olympics athlete leaders from Canada, the Caribbean, and the U.S. gathered in Grand Rapids, Michigan, for the first-ever SONA Regional Athlete Congress.Completely planned and driven by the athletes themselves, this historic event was all about amplifying voices, building leadership skills, and shaping the future of the movement. From mastering project management to delivering powerful campaign speeches, these incredible leaders spent days preparing to make a difference back home—and on the global stage at the 2027 World Games in Chile.As the athletes remind us: "Inclusion is a team sport." It's not enough to just listen—it's time for action. Hit play to see the highlights, the emotional voting results, and the incredible power of athlete leadership! 🔔 Subscribe for more compelling stories from our athletes!

[Paris, France – 16 April 2026] The road to the Special Olympics Unified Football World Cup Paris 2026 took a major step forward as the official tournament Draw Ceremony was held at the headquarters of the French Football Federation in Paris on 16 April.

[Paris, France - 19 February 2026] On 19 February, more than 200 Special Olympics athletes, Unified partners (athletes without intellectual disabilities), and media convened at the City Hall in Paris, France for a landmark moment: the official unveiling of the 12 men’s and 12 women’s teams selected to compete in the Special Olympics Unified Football World Cup Paris 2026.

Everyone needs a hero. Someone they look up to and strive to be like. A person who defies all odds and is courageous in the attempt as they transcend obstacles in their way.

Families are at the heart of Special Olympics, championing inclusion, building community, and driving impact every day.

Families are at the heart of Special Olympics, championing inclusion, building community, and driving impact every day.