KARACHI: The Pakistani contingent has arrived in Italy and received a warm welcome from officials of Special Olympics Italy at Milan Airport.

The team then departed for Turin, where the Winter Games will officially commence on March 8 at the AnAlpi Arena. The opening ceremony will see participation from more than 1,500 athletes and 2,000 volunteers from across the world.

“Special Olympics Pakistan remains committed to promoting an inclusive society where people with intellectual disabilities are provided equal opportunities in sports and life. The Pakistani team stands as a symbol of determination and unity, aiming to make the nation proud on the global stage,” said an official in a message upon reaching Italy.

Earlier, the national contingent of Pakistan departed for Italy to participate in the Special Olympics World Winter Games 2025. The delegation, comprising athletes, coaches, officials, and medical staff, will showcase their skills in the mega sporting event scheduled from March 8 to March 15 in Turin.

The Pakistani team, consisting of 25 members, traveled via a private airline through Abu Dhabi before reaching Milan. The delegation includes 10 athletes (five men and five women), four coaches, three officials, one medical team member, and two additional staff members. Six Pakistani women will also participate in the Global Youth Leadership Summit (GYLS), representing the nation on an international platform.

More than 1,500 athletes from 93 countries and 2,000 volunteers will take part in the World Winter Games, making it a grand event for winter sports. Pakistani athletes will compete in snowshoeing and cross-country skiing, demonstrating their perseverance and dedication to sports.