The Special Olympics Winter World Games 2025 officially kicked off with a breathtaking Opening Ceremony on Saturday, 8 March, at the Inalpi Arena in Turin, Italy. The Alliance of Independent Recognized Members of Sports (AIMS) and United Through Sports (UTS) was honored to be on the ground as honored guests, witnessing an unforgettable night of inclusion, sports, and performances.
The Parade of Athletes was a sight to behold, with 1,500 athletes and Unified partners from 100 nations proudly marching into the arena. The Special Olympics flag was carried in by athletes from Italy, the UAE, South Africa, and China, while representatives from each of Special Olympics’ seven regions brought in the iconic Flame of Hope, marking the official start of the Games.
AIMS and UTS President Stephan Fox and UTS CEO Julia Govinden proudly took part in the Parade of Athletes, walking alongside delegations that symbolize the power of sport and a celebration of athletes from around the world. Stephan Fox joined Team Malaysia, a meaningful symbol ahead of the upcoming UTS World Summit, scheduled for October in Kuala Lumpur. Julia Govinden walked with Team Egypt, highlighting the country’s strong presence in the Special Olympics movement and its ongoing commitment to inclusion. Egypt is set to host various international sporting events this year including the World Junior Squash Championships and the Fencing World Cup among others.
The Opening Ceremony was an incredible showcase of entertainment and emotion, with a focus on inclusion of everybody. Athletes were at the center of every moment of the festivities, demonstrating not only their sporting excellence but also the spirit of the Special Olympics movement and the #InclusionRevolution. The theme of the evening, The Strength of Kindness, highlighted how inclusion and a simple act of kindness towards differences can transform lives.
The night featured remarkable performances, including Grammy-nominated singer Aloe Blacc, who captivated the audience with his hits, and Italian singer and rapper Mr. Rain, who performed Supereroi in honor of the athletes. Unified performances with athletes and performers with and without intellectual disabilities created a unique and heartwarming visual spectacle, with all cheering in celebration.
During the Ceremony, Special Olympics international Chairman of the Board Timothy Shriver addressed the world with a powerful statement. Mr Shriver stated: “At these Games, we don’t ask for pity for our athletes; we ask for a change of heart from the world, coast to coast, north to south, and east to west. We ask for a change of mind, a change of practice, a change of employment, sports, education, early childhood, community living. We ask you to change your life, and I promise you, if you let these athletes rub off on you, your life will never be the same.”
With the Games now underway, Turin, Sestriere, Bardonecchia, and Pragelato will host inclusive competitions in eight winter sports: Alpine Skiing, Cross-Country Skiing, Dancesport, Figure Skating, Floorball, Short Track Speed Skating, Snowboarding, and Snowshoeing. These Games are a historic milestone, being the first Special Olympics Winter World Games held in Italy.
After joining the Athletes Parade, AIMS and UTS President Fox stated: “It was a breathtaking opening ceremony and its message of strength through kindness, celebrating inclusion, bravery, and unity. Global Messenger Gilmour Borg inspired everyone with his message of hope and collective determination. The music, vibrant colors, and above all, the smiles and pride of over 1,500 athletes from around the world as they entered the arena made for an unforgettable night. Ci vediamo a Torino!”
AIMS and UTS extend their heartfelt gratitude to the Special Olympics for an incredible experience and for uniting so many through sport in the pursuit of a truly inclusive world. AIMS and UTS are proud partners of Special Olympics, standing by the #InclusionRevolution in the mission to create a unified effort across all levels of society, ensuring the next generation can thrive.
To witness this extraordinary Opening Ceremony, watch the full stream here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oEF-Xhim4GI
