On October 25, the 2024 National Special Olympics Football Competition kicked off in Beijing, featuring 17 teams from across the country. This event is being held as a preparatory step for the upcoming 12th National Games for Persons with Disabilities and the 9th Special Olympics, which will take place in 2025.

Organized by the China Disabled Persons’ Federation and the China Special Olympics Committee, with support from the China Disabled Sports Management Center, the competition aims to identify and cultivate Special Olympics football athletes. It also serves as a platform for athletes to engage and share experiences, promoting greater participation among individuals with intellectual disabilities in the sport and fostering the development of football as a Special Olympics discipline.

The Special Olympics is designed specifically for individuals with intellectual disabilities, allowing them to enhance their physical capabilities while sharing joy and building friendships with others. During the event, organizers will also provide health services, offering athletes activities such as “Healthy Feet,” “Bright Eyes,” and “Fun Fitness.”

According to the competition guidelines, there will be matches held in both five-a-side football and individual skill events, with 177 athletes competing fiercely over the course of six days.

Looking ahead, the 2025 National Games for Persons with Disabilities and the Special Olympics will be jointly hosted across Guangdong, Hong Kong, and Macau in December 2025. This will mark the first time the Special Olympics has been held in multiple locations and will also be the first time it has taken place in Hong Kong and Macau.