Special Olympics Austria: National Games in Vienna at Record Size

At the first "Special Olympics Brunch" on November 20, politicians, sponsors, partners, associations, as well as athletes and officials from Special Olympics Austria geared up for the National Summer Games, which will take place from June 25 to 30, 2026, in Vienna.

Preparations for Special Olympics in Full Swing

There are still a little over 200 days until the major sporting event is opened in the federal capital. But even now, preparations for the National Special Olympics Summer Games are in full swing. "The sports venues have been finalized by 90 percent, and detailed registration will begin in a few days. By February at the latest, we will know how many athletes will actually compete for medals in Vienna," explains organizing committee head Birgit Morelli, emphasizing: "But it is already becoming apparent that these will be the largest National Games of Special Olympics Austria. And that makes us, of course, proud."

National Games in Vienna Will Break Records

Around 1,800 athletes and Unified partners (athletes without intellectual disabilities) will give their best in 20 sports starting June 25, 2026. Never before in the history of Special Olympics have there been competitions in so many sports at National Games. And it is also expected that a new record will be set for registrations for the games. Vienna as the host city of the National Games simply "draws," as President Laurenz Maresch explains: "National Games are the flagship of Special Olympics. We want to become even more visible with them and motivate even more people to come to us and participate in sports. Vienna is optimally suited due to its infrastructure. I would like to express my thanks to Mayor Michael Ludwig and City Councilor Peter Hacker, who have treated us very kindly and appreciatively. Vienna is simply special."

First "Special Olympics Brunch" in Vienna

To provide a status quo regarding organization, the organizers invited to the first "Special Olympics Brunch" on November 20 in the new Sport Arena Vienna – the location that will be the center during the games in June 2026. Not only will the opening and closing ceremonies be held there, but also the competitions in boccia, judo, MATP, powerlifting, dance sport, and table tennis will take place there.

"Can Learn a Lot"

"For the city of Vienna, the games are incredibly valuable, for the athletes, but also for our city, because we can learn a lot from them. It is part of sports that it propels us forward. It takes courage and joy of life, and together we overcome boundaries. That makes us strong," says Yvonne Rychly, Vienna state parliament member.

(Red)

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