Ireland Summer Games 2026: Be a part of the action!

From 18th-21st June 2026, over 1,200 athletes and thousands of volunteers and supporters will come together for the Special Olympics Ireland Summer Games - a thrilling competition and a celebration of the skill, determination, and abilities of our athletes.

Athletes will compete as proud members of their Regional Teams - Connaught, Eastern, Leinster, Munster and Ulster - across 12 sports in 9 venues. Get to know some of the athletes here.

Sports will include Athletics, Badminton, Basketball, Bocce, Bowling, Equestrian, Football, Golf, both Rhythmic and Artistic Gymnastics, Kayaking (including a doubles event at this level for the very first time), Swimming, and Table Tennis. Find out about the sports and the venues they are held in here.

Also featured at the Games will be a Motor Activities Training Programme (MATP) event which introduces a new format where athletes can select from a range of gross motor skills and movements to demonstrate their development.

Future sporting stars will be in the spotlight at the Young Athletes Festival and the Youth Sport Showcase. These events highlight the Young Athletes programme, a play and sports activity programme for children from 4 to 12 years with an intellectual disability. 

The Games are a vibrant, exciting event like no other - and you can be a part of the action:

• Volunteer at the Games - there are roles available to suit a range of skills and preferences.
• Learn how you can Support an Athlete today - from individual support to community events, and from corporate giving to philanthropy, there are many ways you can turn dreams into reality for our athletes.