Regional President and Sousse Governor Officially Open 10th Special Olympics Regional Games

Sousse – Ahly Online.

The city of Sousse, Tunisia, hosted the official opening ceremony of the 10th Special Olympics Regional Games for the Middle East and North Africa – Beach Sports ‘Sousse 2026’ on the evening of yesterday, featuring delegations representing various Special Olympics programs in the region. The event celebrated values of unity, inclusion, and solidarity through sports.

The opening ceremony was attended by several officials and sports figures, including Eng. Ayman Abdel Wahab, Regional President of the Special Olympics International for the Middle East and North Africa; Mr. Sofiane Tanfouri, Governor of Sousse; and Ms. Malika Belhaj Beldi, Chairperson of the Organizing Committee for the Games. They were joined by delegation heads and participating athletes.

The event featured a parade of participating delegations, with flags of Tunisia, the Special Olympics International for the Middle East and North Africa, and the 10th Regional Games being displayed. A welcoming video was shown as delegates arrived before official speeches were delivered to mark the formal opening of the games.

In his speech during the ceremony, Eng. Ayman Abdel Wahab emphasized that the 10th Regional Games in Sousse mark a new phase in the journey of Special Olympics in the region. He noted that the 2026 edition introduces a new developmental model for regional games that distributes hosting responsibilities across various Arab countries and cities throughout the year. This approach aims to provide greater participation opportunities and enhance the sustainability of sports activities for Special Olympics athletes.

Abdel Wahab added that this direction reflects significant growth in Special Olympics programs in the Middle East and North Africa, aiming to provide more competitive opportunities for athletes while amplifying the impact of Special Olympics’ message within regional communities. He emphasized that athletes are at the core of this humanitarian and sporting movement, with their determination serving as an inspiration for all.

Governor Sofiane Tanfouri welcomed all participating delegations, expressing Tunisia’s pride in hosting such a major regional event in Sousse. He stated that Sousse has mobilized all its resources to ensure successful games and provide optimal conditions for participating delegations. Tanfouri highlighted that hosting this event reflects Tunisia’s commitment to supporting sports as a means of fostering inclusion and bridging gaps between nations, wishing all athletes successful competitions and a unique sporting experience.

The ceremony included official proceedings with oaths taken by athletes, coaches, officials, and partner athletes before the arrival of the Olympic flame carried by several athletes from various Special Olympics programs in the region, signaling the start of official competitions amid enthusiastic reactions from attendees. The opening concluded with artistic and cultural performances showcasing Tunisian heritage and highlighting regional diversity.

Competitions will continue starting today with hundreds of male and female athletes participating in various beach sports, reflecting Special Olympics’ mission to empower its athletes and showcase their abilities through sport.

Notably, this phase of the games features participation from 11 Special Olympics programs from across the Middle East and North Africa, totaling 228 participants including 142 athletes and 52 coaches competing in three beach sports: open water swimming, triathlon, and unified beach volleyball. This marks a first step toward expanding athletic participation opportunities while enhancing competitive continuity for athletes.