Pope offers encouragement to Special Olympics athletes

September 21, 2026

Pope Leo XIV offered encouragement to members of a delegation from the Special Olympics.

“Taking part in sport means committing oneself seriously and with hard work, and then sharing the fruits of one’s perseverance with loyalty, trust, openness, team spirit and courage,” Pope Leo said during the audience, which took place on September 19 in Clementine Hall of the Apostolic Palace. “You do all this, and you demonstrate its beauty in a truly special way to those who take part in and watch the competitions, and to those who know you and meet you.”

“Our world is in such need of people who, like you, remind everyone of the true values of life; of men and women who show by their example that the path of sharing and love is the only one that truly leads to happiness and peace,” the Pope added, before entrusting the delegation to the intercession of “Mary and of Saint Piergiorgio Frassati, a young sportsman like yourselves who, enamored with Jesus, together with many friends, was able to translate the values of sport into a good and generous life, into a holy life.”

 

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Further information:

• Special Olympics Delegation (Dicastery for Communication - Vatican Media, 9/19/26)
• Audience of the Holy Father Leo XIV with a delegation of the “Special Olympics” (Holy See Press Office, 9/19/26)
• Pope to Special Olympics: 'As you know, I too am very fond of sport' (Vatican News, 9/19/26)