Berlin, 16 March 2023 – In under 100 days, the Special Olympics World Games 2023 begin in Berlin, and today the official mascot was revealed. Named Unity, the mascot was presented during the morning show of Germany’s primary television broadcast ARD, in front of the Brandenburg Gate by Special Olympics Germany tennis player Sophie Rensmann and the CEO of Special Olympics World Games Berlin 2023 Sven Albrecht.
Special Olympics athletes from around the world chose the name for the mascot, whose heart shape was inspired by the official logo of the World Games and symbolizes togetherness and affection.
The World Games Berlin 2023 motto is “unbeatable together,” and that spirit infused the creation of Unity.
Special Olympics athletes from all over the world met digitally for several weeks to exchange ideas about the name of the mascot. The name Unity was ultimately chosen based on the emotions the athletes feel about the World Games: joy, togetherness, pride, and excitement. These emotions also influenced the colors of Unity.
Unity represents the world’s largest sport and humanitarian event and is intended to convey inclusion for people with intellectual disabilities to Germany and the world.
Beginning in April, Unity merchandise will be available in three colors in the World Games webshop.
About Special Olympics
Founded in 1968, Special Olympics is a global movement to end discrimination against people with intellectual disabilities. We foster acceptance of all people through the power of sport and programming in education, health, and leadership. With more than six million athletes and Unified Sports partners and one million coaches and volunteers in over 200 accredited Programs, Special Olympics delivers more than 30 Olympic-type sports and over 100,000 games and competitions every year. Engage with us on: Twitter, Facebook, YouTube, Instagram, LinkedInand our blog on Medium. Learn more at www.SpecialOlympics.org.
