EA President Silva speaks at Special Olympics European Sports Conference 2025 in Larnaca

European Aquatics President Antonio Silva has attended the Special Olympics European Sports Conference 2025 being held in Larnaca, Cyprus.

President Silva, who signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Special Olympics Europe and Eurasia (SOEE) President and managing director David Evangelista on July 4, took part in an in-depth panel discussion that also involved two other committed partners to the Special Olympics in the International Judo Federation (IJF) and the Cyprus Golf Federation.

SOEE organisers announced: “We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the President of European Aquatics, Antonio Silva; to the Media and Judo for Peace Director at the IJF, Nicolas Messner, and to the National Director of the Cyprus Golf Federation, Nick Rossides, for accepting our invitation and for their strong commitment and support in making inclusion a reality for our athletes.”

Last month a Special Olympics 800m competition took place within the European Aquatics Open Water Swimming Cup leg 4 in Barcelona.

Speaking after an event that proved hugely rewarding for the 27 athletes from nine countries who were involved, Matteo Secchi, the SOEE sport manager, told European Aquatics:

“The open water event in Barcelona was more than just a competition. It was a powerful statement of our shared commitment to inclusion.

“Seeing 27 swimmers take to the water alongside European Aquatics’ best was a tremendous first step.

“This collaboration is about creating new pathways and opportunities, demonstrating that the power of sport knows no boundaries.

“We are incredibly proud to be making waves together, and this event signals a bright future for aquatics that is truly accessible to all.”

 Meanwhile the SOEE offered thanks to EA’s digital content consultant Nick Hope and “Special Olympics Great Britain superstar” Kiera Byland for mediating the session.

Mike Rowbottom for European Aquatics

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