European water sports photography
Special Olympics and European Water Games (EA) is strengthening its partnership in 2026, with two confirmed dates in the EA Open Water calendar set to welcome athletes Intellectual disabilities Among their ranks.
After announcing a pioneering cooperation agreement last year, the partnership is moving to its next stage, with Special Olympics Open Water Events taking place in Protaras, Cyprus, on April 18, and in Socorro, Hungary, on July 23.
The April event in Protaras forms part of the 2026 Open Water Swimming Cup season, while the July competition in Socorro will be staged alongside the European Junior Open Water Swimming Championships.
Together, the two dates represent a concrete step in achieving the common goals set out in the Memorandum of Understanding signed between the European Water Games Company and the European Water Games Company. Special Olympics Europe and Eurasiafocusing on development, events, partnerships and communication until 2028.
Alongside Protaras and Socorro, European Aquatics is also looking to expand the program to a third date, which will be announced soon, pending approval.
The collaboration builds on the positive experience of working together during the 2025 Open Water Swimming Cup match in Barcelona, which served as an important starting point in the relationship between the two organisations.
This event demonstrated how all-around competitions can be effectively integrated within the European Aquatics framework, laying the foundation for further joint initiatives that will provide new opportunities for Special Olympics athletes and enhance the movement experience in the world of aquatics.
“New opportunities in an inclusive and friendly environment for people with intellectual disabilities at all ability levels are now a reality thanks to the European Aquatics Team, under the strong leadership of President Antonio Silva. We are learning from each other how to be better prepared for upcoming events, creating a long-term positive impact for swimmers, coaches and organizers alike.”
Miroslav Krugolic, Vice President of Special Olympics Europe and Eurasia Sports
European Aquatics President Antonio Silva said the ongoing collaboration reflects a long-standing commitment to inclusion across aquatic disciplines.
“Barcelona was an important moment in establishing our relationship with Special Olympics Europe Eurasia, and we are proud to build on this foundation with confirmed events in Protaras and Socorro in 2026,” he said.
“Our Memorandum of Understanding sets out a clear path for development and events collaboration, and these competitions demonstrate how we are translating this vision into action. We are committed to ensuring aquatics remains accessible and inclusive, and we look forward to strengthening this collaboration in the years ahead.”
Further details regarding both events will be announced in due course, as the European Aquatics and Special Olympics Europe Eurasia continue to expand their overall competition calendar for 2026.
