Athens, Greece – The 26th Summer Deaflympics will be held in Athens in 2029, following a successful bid that saw the Greek capital prevail over Zagreb. This significant athletic event, supported by the Municipality of Athens and the Hellenic Sports Federation of the Deaf (EOAK), marks another milestone for the city in hosting international competitions.
Athens Wins Bid for 2029 Summer Deaflympics
The decision was made during a meeting of the International Committee of Sports for the Deaf (ICSD) in Tokyo, where Athens secured 33 votes against Zagreb’s 31. This victory is a testament to the collective effort and dedication of all involved parties, demonstrating the international sports community’s confidence in Athens’ ability to organize major, high-profile events.
Mayor of Athens, Haris Doukas, expressed his enthusiasm for the announcement. “The assignment of the Summer Deaflympics to Athens is a great honor for our city. It practically proves once again the trust that the international sports community shows us in organizing high-level events,” Doukas stated. He further emphasized the event’s significance as a “great victory for inclusion and cooperation.”
The Mayor highlighted Athens’ immediate embrace of the initiative, standing by all those who worked with faith, perseverance, and dedication. “With this organization, we send a strong message that sport is for everyone,” he added, reinforcing the city’s commitment to accessibility and equal opportunities in sports.
Key Figures React to Athens’ Selection
The Hellenic Sports Federation of the Deaf (EOAK) played a pivotal role in bringing the Deaflympics to Athens. Iosif Stavrakakis, President of EOAK, acknowledged the collaborative effort. “This international distinction reflects the collective effort, dedication, and vision of all those who systematically contributed to achieving this great success,” Stavrakakis said. He extended his warm thanks to the Municipality of Athens and Mayor Doukas for their unwavering support and cooperation from the very beginning, noting that the City of Athens will be the main venue for most of the events.
Eleni Zontirou, President of OPANDA (Organization of Culture, Sports and Youth of the Municipality of Athens), expressed her joy and pride. “This assignment fills us with joy and pride. We are committed to offering an organization that will support inclusion, equality, accessibility, and respect for all athletes. The city is ready to welcome the athletes and delegations from all over the world,” she affirmed, underscoring Athens’ readiness to host a truly inclusive event.
Elena Mantzavinou, Accessible Municipal Councillor, emphasized the broader impact of the Deaflympics. “This event is a global celebration of human strength and will. It is an opportunity to strengthen the dialogue around the rights of our deaf and hard-of-hearing fellow citizens, to ensure accessible infrastructure, and to transform the experience of sports into a universal good,” Mantzavinou remarked, highlighting the event’s potential to foster greater understanding and support for the deaf community.
Commitment to Successful Organization
Mayor Doukas had previously sent a letter supporting Athens’ official candidacy, explicitly stating his commitment and conviction for the successful preparation and implementation of the event. This proactive approach by the city’s leadership was crucial in securing the bid.
With the countdown to 2029 now officially underway, Athens is poised to deliver a memorable and impactful Summer Deaflympics. This event is not only a significant step for deaf sports in Greece but also another opportunity for international promotion of Athens, showcasing its capabilities as a global host city for major sporting spectacles.
Source: https://www.dnews.gr/eidhseis/ellada/560913/stin-athina-oi-therinoi-olympiakoi-agones-kofon-2029
