Jamaica

Athlete leaders attending the 2026 SONA Regional Athlete Congress explain why they are done merely talking; they are ready to get to work.

[May 21, 2026] Special Olympics and the Young 9 Foundation, founded by Carolina Panthers quarterback Bryce Young, have teamed up to expand inclusive sports programming.

In recognition of World Health Day earlier this month, Renee Dease met with David Duncan, Special Olympics Jamaica Health Messenger and Chairman of Special Olympics International Global Athlete Leadership Council.

[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.

At just 19 years old, Jamaican born 3x3 Basketball player Makayla Williams is already showing the world what determination looks like. She joined her Special Olympics program two years ago, driven by her love for basketball and the joy of competing alongside her teammates. 

With the 107th Lions International Convention well under way in Orlando, Florida, now is the perfect moment to discover the depth and breadth of the powerful global partnership between Special Olympics and Lions Clubs International Foundation.

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.

Twin brothers Dale and Dave Oddman overcame numerous challenges to compete in short track speed skating at the Special Olympics World Winter Games—the least of which was training exclusively on roller blades!

The atmosphere was electric as 26 delegations, supported by grants from The Christmas Fund, arrived in Italy, their excitement palpable.