Vienna Inclusion Derby 2025: Strong together for Special Olympics!

Vienna Inclusion Derby 2025: Strong together for Special Olympics!

On Tuesday, the Allianz Stadium in Hütteldorf was once again transformed into an arena for togetherness. The 3. Vienna Inclusion Derby, organized by SK Rapid and FK Austria Wien, sent a strong signal for inclusion in sport. The event was all about the National Special Olympics Summer Games 2026, which will take place in Vienna in just one year.

The motto of the day, “Together instead of against each other,” not only adorned the posters, but was reflected in every action. Prominent players and supporters such as Dagmar Schmidt from FK Austria and Steffen Hofmann from SK Rapid gave the toast of honor and made it clear what the day was about: the joy of the game and promoting the participation of all people, regardless of their abilities or limitations.

A game for everyone

What was special about the inclusion derby was the composition of the teams. Players from the special needs teams, women's and girls' teams as well as Special Olympics athletes and football legends competed against each other. The football classic also attracted greats such as Markus Suttner, Jürgen Patocka and Florian Sturm. The game was led by Austria's top referee Sara Telek, who kept an eye on fair play.

With a final score of 4-2 for the White team, one might think that the competition would have been the focus, but that was far from the case. This event was no ordinary football match; it was about exchange, encounters and a sense of community. It is important that such events not only highlight sporting achievements, but also create awareness of the importance of inclusion.

An important contribution to inclusion

The revenue from the game speaks for itself: 2,500 euros each go to the clubs' special needs teams and an additional 5,000 euros go to Special Olympics Austria. These funds are crucial for supporting inclusive sports projects and confirm how necessary such events are. According to the “FootballFREUNDE” initiative, this also promotes the social participation of children and young people with disabilities, which makes it clear that cooperation beyond the playing field is also important in reality.

More and more studies are proving the positive effects of sport on people with and without disabilities. Sporting activities not only promote physical but also psychological well-being and social interaction. Participation in such events can reduce prejudices and lead to greater acceptance and tolerance in society, which is also discussed in an article by bpb is clearly addressed.

In this context, it becomes clear that integration and inclusion in sport still offers a lot of room for improvement. The UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities lays the basis for equal participation in sporting activities, which continues to be a challenge in many countries, including Austria. But events like the inclusion derby show that there are also positive developments.

The 3rd Vienna Inclusion Derby was more than just a game; it was a celebration of community and hope for an inclusive future in sport. It remains to be hoped that this event will be the start of many more inclusive events in Austria.