About Berlin 2023

Unbeatable Together

Be there when thousands of athletes with intellectual disabilities compete together in 26 summer sports. From 17 to 25 June 2023, the Special Olympics World Games will take place in Berlin, and thus, for the first time in Germany. The Special Olympics World Games are the world's largest inclusive sporting event. It will be a colorful celebration promoting more recognition and inclusion of people with intellectual disabilities.

They are Games by athletes, for athletes.

Mark Solomeyer

National Athlete Leader and Special Olympics Germany Vice President

A photo of a female athlete during her Gymnastics-Rhythmic competition.

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The photo shows athletes celebrating and dancing exuberantly.

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The photo shows a Volleyball team in a circle from below during their time out.

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The photo shows a scene of the start of an Open Water Swimming competition. The athletes are running into the water.

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A photo of a female hold player in action.

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The photo shows a female swimmer getting ready before competition.

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The photo shows a girl smiling at the camera.

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In the photo you can see children rejoicing and running.

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On the photo you can see athletes of the American delegation. They are waving into the camera.

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The photo shows 6 athletes standing in a circle and rejoicing.

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The photo shows the German soccer team. It is celebrated by the fans and greets them with a handshake.

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The photo shows an athlete after the competition. He is happy and runs towards another man.

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The photo shows a judo athlete lying in the arms of her friend and crying with joy.

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The city that breaks down barriers

We are delighted to be hosting the 16th World Games. Berlin is the city that breaks down walls and overcomes borders. Berlin shares this experience with Special Olympics! Throughout the city, athletes will compete with each other in competitions and for more social participation. It will be a celebration. Together we will have fun, and together we will change the world!

7,000 athletes
26 sports
190 nations
20,000 volunteers
9 days full of sports and emotions

The photo shows the mascots of Berlin's professional sports clubs. They hold the hashtag Berlin 2023 in their hands.

The Special Olympics World Games are an outstanding example of inclusion in action, putting people with disabilities and their sporting prowess firmly in the limelight. That is a prime goal for the Berlin Senate, too.

Michael Müller

Governing Mayor of Berlin (2014-2021)