Statement on the cancellation of the Special Olympics World Winter Games

“It is with a heavy heart that today we announce the cancellation of the Special Olympics World Winter Games which were due to take place in Kazan, Russia, January 2023.

Team Ireland have been preparing to compete in Floorball and Alpine Skiing since their selection in 2022. We would like to thank the delegation of 22 athletes, their coaches and management team, for all the hard work they have put in as they navigated and overcame the hurdles thrown at them. Together with Head of Delegation, Sinead Costello and the volunteer management team, we will provide the support to Team Ireland, their families and clubs as they absorb this news.

The welfare of our athletes and wider community is always at the forefront of everything we do.”

Karen Coventry, Director of Sport, Special Olympics Ireland.