The mascot of the Special Olympics World Winter Games Turin 2025 is an irresistibly charming otter, adorned with a Mole Antonelliana-shaped hat that makes it instantly recognizable and deeply tied to the city of Turin. This unique symbol is the result of the creativity of Italian students who participated in the 2024 ‘ScuolArteSpeciale’ contest.
The ‘ScuolArteSpeciale’ 2024 project involved 2,564 students from schools across Italy. These young artists were invited to imagine and design the mascot that would embody the spirit of the Games. The otter emerged as the winning symbol, chosen for its ability to convey joy, a spirit of service, peace, and kindness—core values of Special Olympics.
In addition to being an endearing and playful animal, the otter has a strong symbolic connection to the Italian territory. In recent years, it has returned to populate the Italian Alps, places where it had disappeared for decades. This resurgence represents a metaphor for rebirth and hope, perfectly aligned with the inclusive and rejuvenating spirit of the Games.
What makes this mascot unmistakable is its Mole Antonelliana-shaped hat, paying tribute to Turin’s iconic monument. This element not only emphasizes the connection to one of the host cities but also reflects the welcoming and inclusive spirit of the Games.
A global event with the claim “The Future is Here” cannot overlook the central role of young people. The cultural transformation of a Country, and the World, that embraces diversity as a strength is built on today’s youth, who will be the adults of tomorrow.
Schools of all levels, already highly engaged through the Special Olympics Italy (SOI) School Project, are set to play an active role in the Games. Key actions of the Turin 2025 School Project include:
- Internships: Courses aimed at developing transversal skills and career orientation for high school students.
- Volunteering: Direct involvement of students from 20 schools.
- International Twinning: Opportunities for cultural exchange between foreign delegations and Italian students to promote mutual understanding.
- Unified MATP and Unified YAP: Programs engaging children and youth in inclusive activities, demonstrating how sport can break down all barriers.
The otter is not just a symbol of the Games but also a messenger of a brighter future. With its contagious smile, iconic hat, and the enthusiasm of the young people who created it, it embodies joy, inclusion, and cultural change. It is ready to inspire athletes, spectators, and communities, reminding us that “The Future is Here” and that we can build it together with dedication and solidarity.
