TIRANA, July 17 – Albania’s national football team for players with disabilities will represent the country for the first time at the Genuine Cup 2026 in Houston, Texas, United States, from July 26 to August 2. The team includes 12 young players with intellectual disabilities and will promote social inclusion and equal opportunities through sport.

Meanwhile, Health and Social Protection Minister Prof. Evis Sala, Albanian Football Federation Vice President Geri Çipi and Executive Committee member Blendi Fevziu visited the team during a training session before its departure. Sala described the participation as an important step for inclusive sport in Albania. She said government policies aim to create more opportunities for people with disabilities in education, employment, culture and sport. Çipi highlighted the importance of cooperation between institutions and said football should remain open to everyone.

In addition, Fevziu praised the young players and the organisations that supported the initiative. He said their participation shows that sport can help people overcome challenges and become active members of society. The team’s appearance at Genuine Cup 2026 reflects continued efforts to strengthen inclusion, integration and equal opportunities for people with disabilities.

/a.p./