Paris set to host Special Olympics Unified Football World Cup 2026
By Abdulgafar Oladimeji
The Special Olympics International and Special Olympics France have concluded plans for the successful hosting of the Special Olympics Unified Football World Cup 2026.
The Special World Cup slated to be hosted From 5 – 11 July 2026, will parade 24 teams (12 men’s and 12 women’s) the total of 324 players and 48 coaches are expected to be in Paris to compete for the cup with 10,000 fans expected to be in attendance .
Special Olympics Chairman Tim Shriver said , “Paris, France will become the capital of inclusion at the Special Olympics 2026 Unified Football World Cup, where teams will come together under the principle of ‘Living together, playing together’—uniting athletes on the playing field with a collective goal.
He further said “ France’s deep commitment to harnessing the power of sport to drive inclusion makes Paris the perfect host for this global celebration of unity, resilience, and joy. We are deeply grateful to the French Government and the City of Paris, along with the French Football Federation and Paris FC, for their collaboration in advancing the power of football to build a more inclusive society.”
Special Olympics France President, Pierre Dejoux, and the Chairman of the Local Organizing Committee of the Special Olympics Unified Football World Cup Paris 2026, Jacques Rivoal, said that “We warmly thank Special Olympics International for its trust and all stakeholders of the event for their support. Since the Rugby World Cup France 2023 and the Olympic and Paralympic Games of Paris 2024, France is a key destination for the international sports events. With the Special Olympics Unified Football World Cup Paris 2026 and as part of the legacy of the Paralympics Paris 2024, the country is becoming a key destination for inclusive sport.
“Thanks to this event, Special Olympics France will continue to work hard to bring together all the public authorities, sport entities, and private partners engaged to build a more inclusive society in France.”
“For the first time, France will host a Special Olympics international event. The French Government is firmly committed to making sport a powerful force for inclusion throughout society. That is why it proudly supports the Special Olympics Unified Football World Cup Paris 2026 and the legacy it aims to create. This unique event embodies the values of solidarity and respect—values that also define the entire sporting movement in France.”
The Mayor of Paris Mrs. Anne Hidalgo, said “Paris is proud to host the Special Olympics Unified Football World Cup 2026. After the emotion aroused by the Olympic and Paralympic Games and their amazing popular success, this “Special World Cup” will pursue our ambition to host parasport events and will mark a new step in our commitment to a sport open to all. The City of Paris continues its accessibility strategy by making its facilities, services, and public spaces ever more inclusive and accessible, by training its agents, by developing innovative solutions, and ensuring that everyone can fully participate in the life of the city. Hosting this World Cup is for us the opportunity to show that Paris remains a supportive, engaged, and accessible capital.”
The President of the Greater Paris Metropolis, Patrick Ollier said, “In the momentum of the Paris 2024 Games, the Greater Paris Metropolis continues its commitment to a sporting legacy that is unifying and inclusive by supporting the organization of the Special Olympics Unified Football World Cup 2026, hosted for the first time in France! This event is a unique opportunity to promote inclusion through sport at the heart of the Metropolis, ensuring consideration for people with intellectual disabilities, and to extend its reach across all 130 municipalities, particularly among young people.”
The President Île-de-France Region Authority, Mrs. Valérie Pécresse, “After the incredible momentum of the Paris 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games, the Île-de-France Region is proud to host the Special Olympics Unified Football World Cup 2026. This event carries on the spirit of the Games: a sport that brings people together, breaks down barriers, and gives everyone a place on the field.”
Mr. Philippe Diallo, French Football Federation (FFF) President, stated that “The FFF is proud to support Special Olympics France and to see France host the Special Olympics Unified Football World Cup 2026. This event shows a common commitment to an inclusive football for all.”
