Toyota Ireland has announced a new partnership with Special Olympics Ireland, becoming one of the organisation’s Premier Sponsors through to May 2028. The collaboration will see Toyota support Special Olympics activities at both national and local level, helping to strengthen community engagement while celebrating the achievements of athletes across the country. The new agreement continues a relationship that dates back more than two decades. Toyota first partnered with Special Olympics in 2003 under the leadership of the late Dr Tim Mahony, playing a key role in supporting the Special Olympics World Summer Games in Ireland – the first time the event had been held outside the United States. More recently, Toyota became a Global Partner of Special Olympics International in 2017, further cementing its commitment to inclusion through sport.
The renewed partnership reflects Toyota Ireland’s “Built for a Better World” philosophy, with a shared focus on community, mobility and creating opportunities for people with intellectual disabilities to participate, contribute and thrive through sport. The announcement comes ahead of the Special Olympics Ireland Summer Games 2026, which will take place from June 18th to 21st. Ireland’s largest inclusive sporting event will bring together more than 1,200 athletes competing across 12 sports in what promises to be a celebration of sport, determination and community spirit.
To help build awareness and encourage public support, Toyota Ireland will launch a nationwide radio, digital and digital audio campaign running from June 4th to 21st. Built around the theme “Why the Special Olympics is Special”, the campaign will highlight the unique spirit of the movement through athlete stories and moments of connection, while encouraging people to attend the Summer Games and support the competitors.
Toyota’s nationwide dealer network will also play an important role in bringing the partnership to life. With 41 dealerships across Ireland, the company intends to support local clubs, encourage volunteering and help celebrate athletes within their own communities. Toyota says the reach and strength of its dealer network will ensure support for Special Olympics Ireland is felt in towns and cities throughout the country.
Commenting on the announcement, Steve Tormey, Chief Executive of Toyota Ireland, said:
“We are very proud to relaunch our partnership with Special Olympics Ireland. For Toyota, this is about bringing our Built for a Better World commitment to life in a way that has real meaning, supporting a national movement that creates opportunities for athletes to be recognised, celebrated and included. Toyota has a long and meaningful history with Special Olympics, including our role as one of the primary sponsors of the 2003 World Games in Ireland. As the Ireland Summer Games approaches, we are honoured to build on that legacy and play our part in supporting one of the country’s most inspiring celebrations of sport, achievement and national pride. We encourage people to go and support the Games and cheer the athletes on.”
Karen Coventry, CEO of Special Olympics Ireland, added:
“At Special Olympics, we believe strong partnerships have the power to create lasting change. We are delighted to join forces with Toyota, who share our commitment to innovation, community and inclusivity. Together, we look forward to making a real impact and making a meaningful difference in the lives of the people and communities we support.”
The new partnership marks the latest chapter in a relationship spanning more than 20 years, with both organisations united by a shared commitment to inclusion, opportunity and the power of sport to bring communities together.
