SO Bharat's Triumphant Return After Gothia Cup Glory

The Special Olympics Bharat's football team received a grand welcome in New Delhi after their unbeaten performance at the Gothia Cup in Sweden, supported by SKF India. The 10-member team from six states showcased exceptional talent, lifting the prestigious trophy in the Gothia Special Olympics Trophy category.

Special Olympics Bharat (SO Bharat) organized a welcome ceremony at The Lalit, New Delhi to honor the ten-member Indian football team that returned victorious from the Gothia Cup held in Gothenburg, Sweden, from July 14 to July 18.

Supported by SKF India, the team, comprising athletes with intellectual and developmental delays, remained unbeaten in their group and clinched the prestigious trophy. Upon their return, they were welcomed by distinguished guests including Chief Guest Raksha Khadse, Union Minister of State for Youth Affairs and Sports, and Mallika Nadda, President of SO Bharat and Chairperson of the Asia Pacific Advisory Council (APAC).

The Gothia Cup opened on July 15 at Ullevi with over 49,000 spectators. 1,910 teams participated, including 50 Special Olympics teams from 15 countries. SO Bharat, placed in Group 5, won all their matches leading to a thrilling final against SO Denmark, which they won 4-3. Muhammad Shaheer from Kerala scored the maximum goals for the Indian team.

Raksha Khadse praised the athletes, stating their success would inspire future generations. SO Bharat President Mallika Nadda expressed joy in celebrating the Global Day of Inclusion with the team's victory and acknowledged the support from SKF India and the Embassy of Sweden in India. Coach Harpreet Singh Gambhir highlighted the importance of team coordination and rigorous preparation, while SKF India President Mukund Vasudevan applauded the athletes' dedication and resilience.

The SO Bharat team made their debut at the Gothia Cup, representing six states: Delhi, Kerala, Madhya Pradesh, Puducherry, Uttar Pradesh, and West Bengal.

(With inputs from agencies.)