Last Updated on:
Over 1,500 athletes and Unified partners from more than 100 nations will gather in Turin, Italy, for the 2025 Special Olympics World Winter Games—a vibrant week-long showcase of courage, skill, and unity. From March 8–15, the event will spotlight the extraordinary achievements of athletes with intellectual disabilities while fostering inclusivity, community bonds, and the transformative power of diversity.
Global : Steadyflix
United States: Tune in via ESPN (TV or streamings platforms), ESPN+, Disney+, or ESPN3.
Canada: Broadcast live on TSN.
Italy: Catch the ceremony on Rai2.
European Union: Streams on ZDF.
The Games launch with an inspiring Opening Ceremony on March 8, setting the stage for nine days of competition across winter sports. Fans can anticipate a spectacle of joy, artistry, and cultural pride, reminiscent of the 2023 Summer Games in Berlin. Highlights from that event included electrifying performances, athlete parades, and a unified message of global solidarity—all elements set to return this year.
The Opening Ceremony begins at 12:00 PM ET on March 8. Central to the event is the Parade of Nations, where athletes wave their flags with pride—a moment guaranteed to spark inspiration and lasting smiles. For newcomers to the Special Olympics, the ceremony offers a heartwarming glimpse into the unbridled enthusiasm and determination of competitors.
Beyond the fanfare, the Games challenge stereotypes and champion equity, proving that sports transcend barriers. Whether you’re cheering from Turin or your living room, this celebration of human spirit promises to leave a lasting impact.
March 812 p.m. ET: Opening Ceremony – Special Olympics World Winter Games Turin 2025ESPN+ / Disney+ / ESPN3March 1211:15 a.m. ET: Figure SkatingESPN+ / ESPN3March 133:30 a.m. ET: Short Track Speed Skating11:20 a.m. ET: Figure SkatingESPN+ / ESPN3March 143:30 a.m. ET: Short Track Speed Skating9 a.m. ET: Figure SkatingESPN+ / ESPN3April 61 – 2 p.m. ET: Best Of Special Olympics World Winter Games Turin 2025ABC / ESPN+
Catch all the adrenaline-fueled action of Short Track Speed Skating live from Turin, airing March 13–14 starting daily at 3:30 a.m. ET exclusively on ESPN+ and ESPN3.