Saarland is preparing for inclusive sports festival: Special Olympics 2026!

Saarland is preparing for inclusive sports festival: Special Olympics 2026!

The preparations for the Special Olympics National Games in Saarland 2026 are in full swing. The first meeting of the newly formed board of trustees took place last Monday, in which important course was set for the event. This opening session were hosted by Christiane Krajewski, the President of Special Olympics Germany, as well as Reinhold Jost, the Minister of the Interior, Building and Sport of the Saarland.

A central concern of the meeting was to bring the philosophy of Special Olympics closer to the members of the board of trustees. In her speech, Krajewski emphasized that Special Olympics was the largest including sports organization for people with mental impairment and differs from the variety of performance classes in which the athletes compete. "This is important to make it clear that every athlete is recognized in his uniqueness," she said.

The goals of the board of trustees

The board of trustees has committed itself to the sustainable development of Special Olympics and the inclusion in Saarland. A crucial aspect is the support in the procurement of financial and material resources as well as the networking of politics and organizations. Jost is optimistic about the commitment of the Saarland community, which is willing to take responsibility. "The people here not only want to watch, but actively participate and help," continued Jost.

A long-term strategic goal was also determined: the national games are to be expanded as the largest inclusive multisport event in Germany with an international character. To achieve this, more encounters and interactions between the participants should be promoted. Among other things, new competitive formats and a more flexible schedule are planned to maximize the number of spectators.

Another central theme of the session was the integration of volunteers in various roles during the games. It was discussed how citizens as a volunteers can support the supporting program, with school projects or in the so -called Host Town program. These initiatives should also help to raise awareness of inclusion issues and to facilitate access to sport.

In June 2026, up to 5,000 athletes and unified partners will take part in the games that take place throughout Saarland in more than 20 sports. This event not only offers a platform for top sporting performance, but also the opportunity to share emotions and to promote understanding of inclusive values. "We want every athlete to shine," says Krajewski.

The Special Olympics National Games in Saarland not only promise a competition at the highest level, but also an important step towards larger social inclusion. Specialolympics.de .