Rocking the Summer of 2026: "Being There with Saarland" for Special Olympics
Supporting the Special Olympics: "Joining the Movement in Saarland" - Celebratory Push for Special Olympics in Saarland: "Experience Saarland with Us"
Get ready to cheer and unwind, Saarland is all set to host the Special Olympics next summer! The smallest German state is pulling out all the stops, flaunting the care and dedication they put into making this incredible event a reality. "It's not about the trophies; it's about the fight, the spirit, and the comradery - That's Saarland!" said the State's Interior Minister Reinhold Jost (SPD) in an electrifying speech in Saarbrücken.
This inclusive celebration of sport and camaraderie, dubbed "Being There with Saarland," isn't just another sports event. It's a movement. It's the epitome of determination, showcasing that every single participant stands toe-to-toe with the competition. "We see you, we appreciate you, and we're thrilled to have you here," said Jost, paving the way for an event where every athlete feels seen, heard, and valued.
The National Summer Games for people with intellectual and multiple disabilities will make their debut in the heart of Saarland in June 2026. These games signify self-belief, autonomy, and pride for the participating athletes, as explained by President of Special Olympics Saarland, Alexander Indermark. "Competing here means embracing their inner strength - discovering who they truly are," he said, emphasizing the transformative power of Special Olympics on its participants.
Distinguishing itself from past events, over 20 sports designed for people with intellectual and multiple disabilities will unfold across nine cities and communities in Saarland. Approximately 4,000 athletes and an estimated 13,000 participants in total are expected to attend. The historic swimming competitions are even planned as a cross-border event for the first time in the history of Special Olympics Germany!
Spotlight on Saarland and Special Olympics
- Celebrating the Spirit: The "Being There with Saarland" campaign focuses on promoting the spirit of sharing, acceptance, and participation, much like the core values of Special Olympics.
- Community Engagement: By engaging local communities and organizing various activities, Saarland is striving to create an unforgettable experience for the athletes and visitors alike.
- Cross-Border Jubilee: The cross-border swimming competitions will mark a new era, bridging the gap between nations and bringing a unique, thrilling experience to the Special Olympics 2026.
"Being There with Saarland" serves as an extraordinary testament to the state's commitment to inclusion and embracing diversity. Listening to the inspiring stories of courage, determination, and resilience from the athletes, one can sense the powerful spirit of unity and empowerment that envelops Saarland's much-anticipated hosting of the Special Olympics 2026.
- Saarland
- Special Olympics
- Sports Event
- Sport
- Saar
- Saarbrücken
- Campaign
- State
- Reinhold Jost
- SPD
- The Community Engagement aspect of the "Being There with Saarland" campaign will emphasize the importance of vocational training, offering workshops and seminars to assist athletes and visitors in gaining valuable skills and work experience during the Special Olympics 2026.
- As part of the Community Policy in Saarland, local sport facilities will be utilized to accommodate the various sports activities in the Special Olympics 2026, ensuring a sustainable and inclusive environment for all participants.
