Flame of hope enlightened: Special Olympics 2025 opened!

Rund 1,500 athletes as well as 400 trainers took part in the ceremonial invasion, which the colorful variety and the spirit of the competition underlined. Erwin Horak, President of Special Olympics Bavaria, spoke a warm welcome to everyone present and emphasized the importance of these national games that not only focus on sport, but also promote cooperation and social integration.

a festive ambience for inclusion and sport

Mayor Jörg Vollet was proud to have elected Erlangen as the venue. The games are not only a sporting competition, but also a symbol of progress in the social participation of people with disabilities. Dieter Münch, Vice President of Special Olympics Germany, found how important it is that this sporting event drives the visibility and development of inclusion. The flame of hope was also inflamed - a powerful symbol that will shine in Erlangen until July 18th.

An extensive program will be waiting for the participants in the next four days. A total of 19 sports are offered both exciting competitions and numerous events such as a family evening, the helper and athlete disco and the health program Healthy Athletes®. The inclusive show program surrounding the opening set another sign of diversity and coexistence in society.

The role of sport for inclusion

But how important sport is for inclusion also shows a look at the progress that has been achieved in the area of disabled sports in Germany. Historically, organized disabled sports began in 1888 with the establishment of the first deaf sports club. A lot has happened over the decades, with the UN Convention on the Rights of Disabilities of 2006 giving significant impulses to request equal participation in sport.

However, the challenges are still great. In particular, access to sports clubs is often denied for many people with disabilities. There are numerous integrative sports projects, but they are not yet perceived by society. Offers such as the “Football Freunde” initiative, which was launched in 2010, show that there are also positive developments. 18 pupils with and without intellectual impairments play football every week and take part in inclusive tournaments.

Today's national games are not just a sporting event, but a festival for inclusion. It is important to create space for encounters and reduce barriers to promote a society in which every person, regardless of their skills, finds their place. Special Olympics is not just a competition, but a light on the way to more acceptance and social interaction.

For more information about the Special Olympics in Erlangen, visit the website of the Special Olympics Bayern.

If you want to learn more about developments in the field of inclusion in sport, you can find out more at the Federal Center for Political Education.

The fire of hope is on fire until July 18 - let us make sure that it also shines beyond!