The Special Olympics World Games are the most significant sporting event for individuals with intellectual disabilities worldwide, and in 2027, Chile will be the host country. This event is organized by Special Olympics, a global movement that promotes inclusion through sports, empowering thousands of athletes across the country by fostering values such as equity, justice, and solidarity while providing opportunities for individuals with intellectual disabilities in Chile and the 192 countries where the organization operates.

Unimarc—an SMU subsidiary—has joined as a strategic partner in supporting the national delegation of athletes who will represent Chile at this international event. This partnership reinforces the company’s commitment to inclusion and sports, providing ongoing support to athletes on their journey to Santiago 2027.

Unimarc’s commitment to Special Olympics Chile dates back several years, having supported the national team during the Special Olympics World Games Berlin 2023 and the Latin American Games Asunción 2024. Now, alongside the upcoming Special Olympics Winter World Games Turin 2025, the focus shifts toward the road to Special Olympics World Games Santiago 2027, where Chile will become the global hub of inclusive sports, welcoming thousands of athletes from different countries.

Unlike the Paralympic Games, which focus on athletes with physical and sensory disabilities, Special Olympics competitions are specifically designed for individuals with intellectual disabilities. Beyond being a high-performance platform, these games offer a unique opportunity to promote inclusion and raise awareness about the talents and capabilities of individuals with intellectual disabilities.

The Chilean delegation comprises athletes selected to represent the country across various disciplines, alongside coaches, volunteers, and specialists who support their training and development. Their participation will be crucial in demonstrating how sports can be a powerful tool for social transformation, fostering equality and integration.

"At Unimarc, we believe in the transformative power of sports and the importance of creating truly inclusive spaces. That’s why we are committed to supporting Special Olympics Chile and its athletes all the way to Santiago 2027. This initiative aligns with other actions we undertake as a company, such as our support for Teletón, the Rehabilitation Campaigns in Magallanes, the implementation of Silent Hour in our supermarkets, and backing social projects through the Fondo Descúbreme," said Lionel Gubler, Unimarc’s Format Manager.

In recognition of its commitment to inclusion, Unimarc received the Special Olympics Chile Inclusive Seal in October 2024, an award given to organizations that go beyond compliance with labor inclusion laws by actively fostering inclusive and equitable environments.

Through initiatives like this, Unimarc continues to promote a more inclusive society, ensuring that more people have access to opportunities for growth—both in sports and in the workplace.