Special Olympics Unified Football World Cup Paris 2026
5 – 11 July 2026
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In 2026, for the first time, France will host the Special Olympics Unified Football World Cup in Paris. This, the third edition of the Cup, will take place 5 – 11 July across venues in the heart of Paris. There will be 24 teams, 12 men's and 12 women's teams, consisting of athletes with intellectual disabilities and Unified partners (athletes without intellectual disabilities), competing for the Unified Football World Cup title.
2026 Special Olympics Unified Football World Cup!
We’re proud to announce that Paris, France will host the 2026 Special Olympics Unified Football World Cup!
This incredible global event will unite 324 athletes, 48 coaches, 500 families, and 500 volunteers from all seven Special Olympics regions.
In partnership with the French Government, the City of Paris, the French Football Federation, and Paris FC, we’re setting the stage for an unforgettable competition where athletes will showcase their skills, teamwork, and spirit to claim the title of Unified Football World Cup Champions! ⚽🌍
This incredible global event will unite 324 athletes, 48 coaches, 500 families, and 500 volunteers from all seven Special Olympics regions.
In partnership with the French Government, the City of Paris, the French Football Federation, and Paris FC, we’re setting the stage for an unforgettable competition where athletes will showcase their skills, teamwork, and spirit to claim the title of Unified Football World Cup Champions! ⚽🌍
More about this event
sportanddev: Paris to Host the Special Olympics Unified Football World Cup 2026
The following is an excerpt from sportanddev’s article, detailing the upcoming 2026 Unified Football World Cup in Paris and sharing the excitement from sponsors and Special Olympics leadership.
Paris to Host the Special Olympics Unified Football World Cup 2026
The following is an excerpt from the International Sports Press Association’s (AIPS) article, “Paris to host 3rd edition of the Special Olympics Unified Football World Cup 2026” covering the announcement of Paris, France as the host of the Unified Football World Cup in 2026.
Paris to Host 3rd Edition of the Special Olympics Unified Football World Cup 2026
[Paris, Washington DC - 4 November 2025] Special Olympics International and Special Olympics France have finalized the hosting agreement of the Special Olympics Unified Football World Cup 2026.
Sponsors
French State
City of Paris
Greater Paris Metropolis
Ile-de-France Region
French Football Federation
Paris FC
Lions Clubs International Foundation
First Official Partner
Health Official Partner
Official Partner
First Official Supporter
With the Involvement of
Venues
Charlety Stadium
International University City of Paris
324
Players
48
Coaches
12
Men's Teams
12
Women's Teams
500
Families
500
Volunteers
Unified Sports
Over a million people worldwide take part in Unified Sports, breaking down stereotypes about people with intellectual disabilities in a fun way.
"Football is the world's most popular team sport—across the globe and in Special Olympics. Every year, over 630,000 players participate in 16,000 Special Olympics football events run in over 190 countries worldwide."
Jon-Paul St. Germain, Vice President Sport Development, Sport & Competition