Malta will host the inaugural Special Olympics European Swimming Open in September 2026, marking the first international Special Olympics swimming event to be organised on this scale by Special Olympics Malta.

The championships will take place from 10 to 14 September 2026 at the National Pool in Tal-Qroqq, bringing together more than 400 athletes from 40 countries.

The event was officially launched by Special Olympics Malta, which also unveiled a series of parallel initiatives designed to promote inclusion and athlete wellbeing. These include a sports village featuring a Bocce competition for more than 200 athletes, the Healthy Athletes screening programme covering six disciplines, and a Motor Activity Training Programme (MATP) Festival, organised in collaboration with Aġenzija Sapport, for around 500 athletes.

Speaking at the launch, Dr Lydia Abela, President of Special Olympics Malta, outlined the vision behind the Games and highlighted the event’s theme, “Beyond the Wave.” She said the message is intended to inspire hope and demonstrate that, despite the daily challenges many athletes face, there is a future filled with opportunities.

Dr Abela added that the Games also aim to showcase the power of unity, stressing that when society comes together, it can create meaningful change and build a more inclusive community that offers equal opportunities for everyone