World Championships for Athletes with Down Syndrome

In June 2026, Sofia will host an international sporting event that will bring together athletes, coaches, delegations, and guests from around the world in Bulgaria.

Sofia Welcomes the World in 2026

From 13 to 19 June 2026, Bulgaria will host the World Championships for Athletes with Down Syndrome – an event that brings together sport, inspiration, international cooperation, and human stories.

Over the course of seven days, participants from different countries will take part in competitions, official ceremonies, meetings between delegations, and special events across Sofia.

Sports in the Programme

The Championships include five sports that will take place at key sports venues across Sofia.

Competition Venues

The competitions will take place at some of the most recognizable sports venues in Sofia.

Athletics
Vasil Levski National Stadium

Artistic Gymnastics
Arena 8888 Sofia

Rhythmic Gymnastics
Arena 8888 Sofia

Table Tennis
WINBET Sport & Event Centre

Tennis
Sesil Karatantcheva Tennis Courts

World Championships for Athletes

with Down Syndrome

Sofia 2026 in Numbers

5

SPORTS

7

DAYS OF COMPETITION

40

+
COUNTRIES

400

+
ATHLETES

1

WORLD STAGE

Organizer

The Championships are organized by the Federation for Adapted Physical Activity – Bulgaria, an organization dedicated to developing sport for people with intellectual disabilities and special needs through training, competitions, international participation, and sports programmes.

The Federation works actively with children, young people, and adult athletes, as well as

Official Website FAPA Bulgaria

Bulgaria Awaits You!

The World Championships in Sofia will be a celebration of sport, inclusion, and the human spirit. Become part of the event as a participant, guest, partner, or volunteer.

Main Partner

BAUHAUS supports the organization of the World Championships for Athletes with Down Syndrome – Sofia 2026, as well as the development of sport for people with Down syndrome worldwide.