The Flame of Hope Comes to Switzerland
A Global Movement
The Special Olympics World Winter Games will take place in Switzerland in 2029. From 10-17 March 2029, about 3,200 delegation members from more than 100 countries will explore all regions of Switzerland and compete in eight sports. In doing so, they will promote equal rights for all people in our society.
The World Winter Games are much more than just sport. Special Olympics Switzerland works closely with Swiss sports federations and clubs to jointly implement the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. The Games offer a profound experience for an inclusive Switzerland, where everyone has equal access to sport, education, health, and all aspects of life.
All of Switzerland is participating!
As with all Special Olympics World Games, the “Host Town Program” takes place over four days before the opening ceremony. The more than 100 delegations from various nations will be spread across all cantons to prepare for their assignments and get to know Switzerland. The “Host Town Program” aims to help the delegations establish contacts with the local population, especially schoolchildren, build personal relationships, and experience inclusion in Swiss society firsthand. It takes place in locations that are important for Swiss tourism.
The Special Olympics World Winter Games Switzerland 2029 are a platform for athletes with cognitive disabilities and will help Switzerland become a more inclusive society.
Martin Pfister, Head of the Federal Department of Defence, Civil Protection and Sport
Latest News
Stay up to date with the latest news on the 2029 World Winter Games in Switzerland.
Chur, May 4, 2026 – The Special Olympics World Winter Games are proud to welcome Novartis, a leading global innovative medicines company, as an Official Partner of the 2029 Games in Switzerland. The long-term partnership will run from 2026 to 2030.
Switzerland 2029 is strengthening its partnerships: With Kuoni Tumlare, an internationally experienced partner is taking over the planning and implementation of accommodations for athletes, delegations, and guests.
The partnership goes beyond traditional sponsorship: it combines business expertise in the sports retail sector with a clear social commitment to inclusion and sustainable impact.