About
The world’s most important sporting event for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
Mission
In 2027, Santiago will invite Special Olympics athletes from around the world to compete in 23 Olympic-style sports at its state-of-the-art venues. With a rich cultural heritage, stunning architecture, and a long tradition of hosting global sporting events, the World Games in Santiago are expected to leave a legacy of social transformation for Chile, its people, and the Latin American region.
For the first time ever, the Special Olympics World Games are coming to Chile, marking a historic moment for the country and the Latin American region. In 2027, Santiago will welcome thousands of athletes, families, and fans from around the globe to celebrate unity, inclusion, and the power of sport.
Latest News
Stay up to date with the latest news about the Santiago 2027 World Games
Over five days at Parque Estadio Nacional, international delegations competed in five sports. Fans in the Stands drew more than 1,200 spectators a day to athletics and swimming, while Chilean and international officials highlighted the impact of the 2027 World Games.
The day also featured Special Olympics Chile’s “World Games Athletes for a Day” event, which brought officials and athletes together through Unified Sports, and a visit from Special Olympics President and CEO David Evangelista.
More than 6,000 athletes and Unified partners from over 170 countries will compete in Chile from 16 – 24 October 2027, at the first Special Olympics World Games ever held in Latin America.
Special Olympics is a global movement that unleashes the human spirit through the transformative power and joy of sport, every day around the world. Through programming in sports, health, education and community building, Special Olympics is changing the lives of people with intellectual disabilities solving the global injustice, isolation, intolerance and inactivity they face.
By the Numbers
170
Countries
+
6
,000
Athletes and Unified Partners
23
Sports
14
Unified Sports
+
10
,000
Volunteers
+
20
,000
Foreign visitors
