Special Olympics USA Games 2026
ESPN’s coverage of 2026 Special Olympics USA Games begins June 20, live from University of Minnesota in Minneapolis
Where to Watch
What We Do
Every day, Special Olympics events are taking place around the globe transforming the lives of millions of individuals with intellectual disabilities both on and off the playing field.
Sports
Special Olympics supports over 5 million athletes, unified partners, coaches and volunteers with 32 Olympic-type sports.
Inclusive Health
Improving the health and well-being of people with intellectual disabilities.
Youth & Schools
Empowering Youth Leaders, educators, coaches, and families to build inclusive schools and communities for all.
Inclusive Leadership
Unleashing leadership potential in people of all abilities.
Make a Difference
Please donate and help us get one more athlete onto the playing field.
Stories of Impact
Stories from around the world, inspiring courage, hope and confidence.
2026 Special Olympics USA Games: Let the Games Begin!
It's a crisp, sun-kissed sky in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Just past the plaza entrance of Huntington Bank Stadium, the city skyline sits perfectly in the end zone corner.
1 Min Read
Happy Father’s Day!
This Father’s Day, Special Olympics would like to thank all the dads who participate in this incredible movement! Your support and cheers mean so much to the athletes who compete and your impact is felt by all.
1 Min Read
A Second Chance at Life
A powerful story of how the Special Olympics Unified with Refugees initiative offers refugee children with intellectual disabilities a pathway from exclusion to belonging.
4 Min Read
Loretta Claiborne Named Special Olympics Advisor to CEO
At Special Olympics, athletes are at the core of our leadership. Their voice and example guide the movement in every way. That’s why we are thrilled to announce Loretta Claiborne as our new Senior Advisor to the CEO, Athlete Experience.
1 Min Read
World Down Syndrome Day 2026
Athlete Leaders from Special Olympics Latin America share important messages for World Down Syndrome Day—a day of awareness, solidarity, activism, and celebration.
More than a Logo, a Symbol that Connects the World Together
The story behind the Special Olympics World Games Santiago 2027 logo
1 Min Read
Our Global Reach
With 5 competitions per hour across the globe, our movement represents over 5.3 million athletes, unified partners, coaches, and volunteers.
4,660,299
Athletes and Unified Partners
256
National and State Programs
24,383
Unified Schools
393,943
Coaches
68,053
Athlete Health Screenings
820,832
Volunteers
Join Our Movement
Join our movement, belong to an inspiring community and help us to build a better tomorrow for people of all abilities. With over 30 sports and nearly 50,000 games every year, there's an opportunity for you!
Become an Athlete
Become a Coach
Become a Volunteer
Featured Partners
Global Supplier of Ophthalmic Lenses for Special Olympics the Opening Eyes program
Supporting Special Olympics throughout the world
Exclusive Global Supplier of Ophthalmic Frames and Sunglasses for the Special Olympics Opening Eyes program
Stay Connected
Share your contact information so we can keep you up-to-date on all of the exciting work happening within our movement.