Ploiești to Host Special Olympics National Games in 2026

The upcoming Jocurile Naționale Special Olympics România 2026 will proudly take place in Ploiești, marking a significant milestone for inclusivity in sports. Scheduled for August 28 to 30, 2026, this event will welcome over 300 athletes from 30 counties and Bucharest, showcasing their talents and determination.

This year's edition is dedicated to the legendary Nadia Comăneci, emphasizing the spirit of excellence and perseverance. Athletes will compete in bocce, athletics, and swimming, with support from 150 coaches, teachers, family members, and 150 dedicated volunteers, medical staff, and technical personnel.

The competitions will kick off on August 28 at the Universitatea Petrol-Gaze din Ploiești (UPG), starting with preliminary events in bocce and athletics at 08:00. Athletes will also benefit from free medical evaluations at UPG, ensuring their well-being throughout the competitions.

On August 29, the preliminary competitions will continue at UPG and the Didactic Swimming Pool in Câmpina, with the swimming events beginning at 10:00. A highlight of the day will be the Cursa Flăcării Speranței at 18:00, featuring athletes, local sports personalities, law enforcement representatives, and Ploiești city officials carrying the Flame of Hope.

The opening ceremony, set for August 29 at 19:00 at Sala Olimpia Ploiești, will feature a parade of delegations, the lighting of the Flame of Hope, and the raising of the Special Olympics flag, alongside a musical performance by Nicola.

The final competitions and award ceremonies will take place on August 30, with swimming finals and medal presentations at both Sala Olimpia Ploiești and the Didactic Swimming Pool in Câmpina, starting at 08:00.

Cristian Ispas, Director of Special Olympics România, emphasizes that sports provide individuals with intellectual disabilities the opportunity to discover and showcase their abilities. Ion Antonio Tache, President of the Founding Lions Club Ploiești, views hosting the National Games as a concrete commitment to inclusion and invites the community to support the athletes, celebrating the courage, determination, and joy that define any great champion.