Flame of Hope

“In this world, I’m learning to be proud of myself and to support other people who still don’t believe in themselves.”

Carried with pride by Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics volunteers and Special Olympics athletes, the Flame of Hope spreads a powerful message of inclusion and perseverance across the globe. Lit in Athens, Greece—the birthplace of the Olympic movement—the Torch for the Special Olympics World Winter Games #Turin2025 shines as a masterpiece, reflecting the rich art, culture, and iconic heritage of Italy’s Piedmont region. Let the journey of the Flame of Hope ignite a brighter future, lighting the way to a world where everyone belongs.

With the lighting of the ‘Flame of Hope’ at Turin’s Inalpi Arena on Saturday night, the 2025 Special Olympics World Winter Games were officially declared open, marking the start of the world’s largest sports and humanitarian event of the year.

[Turin, Italy - March 9, 2025] Last night, the “Flame of Hope” was lit in the Inalpi Arena in Turin, Italy, marking the official start of the 2025 Special Olympics World Winter Games in Italy, the world’s largest sports and humanitarian event of the year.

As excitement builds, we will highlight eight phenomenal athletes who will represent their nations in Special Olympics World Winter Games Turin 2025. Their journeys of passion and dedication reflecting the transformative impact of sport.

Special Olympics rhythmic gymnast illuminates path to inclusion ahead of World Summer and Winter Games

The Special Olympics Flame of Hope™ begins its journey from Athens to Italy

For nearly 45 years thousands of law enforcement officers around the world have raised money for local Special Olympics programs

On 7 June, the Special Olympics Flame of Hope was lit in Athens, Greece and then began making its way to the Special Olympics World Games Berlin 2023. This flame, carried by members of the 2023 LETR Final Leg, will light the cauldron during Opening Ceremonies to mark the official start to the Games.