Special Olympics Unified Cup 2022 presented by Toyota showed the world how the power of sport builds and shapes a diverse community that unites and empowers people of all abilities, from all backgrounds.
In July 2022, Detroit welcomed over 300+ footballers (comprising 22 teams), 500 family members and dignitaries, and 1,000 volunteers from over 20 nations to compete in football (soccer)—the world’s most popular sport. The Special Olympics Unified Football World Cup Detroit 2022 took place 31 July – 6 August, 2022 and Special Olympics Unified Sports® is what made it uniquely inclusive: Teams that were comprised of footballers with and without intellectual disabilities playing together.
The Special Olympics Unified Cup featured competitions broadcasted to hundreds of millions of viewers across the globe.
The week-long event showcased athletic performances on the pitch in 3 competition venues visited by 10,000+ viewers and spectators and highlight stereotype-defying stories off the pitch—changing minds and opening hearts through transformational inclusion.
Off the pitch there were 7 special events and programming that featured health screenings for athletes.
