Safilo Group reinforces commitment to Special Olympics through renewed partnership

The extended partnership reflects their shared commitment to promoting inclusive health and vision care for athletes with intellectual disabilities, a collaboration that has thrived for more than 22 years.

Mar 11, 2025 - 10:46

Safilo Group reinforces commitment to Special Olympics through renewed partnership

Italian eyewear house Safilo Group has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the Special Olympics.

The renewal was confirmed at the Opening Ceremony of the 2025 Special Olympics World Winter Games in Turin, Italy on 8 March.

Special Olympics Europe Eurasia President and Managing Director David Evangelista (left) and Safilo Group CEO Angelo Trocchia celebrate their long-standing collaboration {Images: Iñaki Esnaola/Special Olympics Europe Eurasia}

This extended partnership strengthens their 22-year collaboration in promoting inclusive health and vision care for athletes with intellectual disabilities.

Under their agreement, Special Olympics athletes worldwide will continue to receive prescription frames and sunglasses from Safilo through the Special Olympics Lions Clubs International Foundation Opening Eyes programme.

Safilo employees have also supported the Opening Eyes events, assisting athletes with eye exams, prescription eyewear and follow-up care referrals.

Safilo Group CEO Angelo Trocchia said, “At Safilo, we believe that clear vision is a fundamental right, not a privilege. For over 20 years, our partnership with Special Olympics has allowed us to bring not just eyewear, but dignity, confidence and opportunity to thousands of athletes worldwide.

“This renewed commitment reaffirms our dedication to inclusion, accessibility and eye health – ensuring that every athlete has the vision care they need to excel, both in competitions and in daily life. We are proud to continue this journey and to stand alongside Special Olympics in their mission of empowerment. This commitment is part of Safilo’s purpose-led strategy based on three sustainability pillars: planet, product and people.”

Special Olympics CEO Mary Davis added, “The renewal of our partnership with Safilo is more than just an extension of a collaboration, it is a testament to a shared commitment to health equity for people with intellectual disabilities.

“Vision care is often an overlooked but essential part of an athlete’s success, and Safilo’s contribution has transformed lives by providing access to screenings, prescription frames and expert care. As we celebrate this milestone at the Special Olympics World Winter Games Turin 2025, we look forward to expanding our impact and ensuring that every athlete sees a clearer, brighter future ahead.”