MUMBAI, INDIA – WWE announced its partnership with Special Olympics Bharat for the 2015 Special Olympics World Games, a global sporting event to be held in Los Angeles from July 25 to Aug. 2. The announcement was made today in Mumbai by Victor R. Vaz, National Sports Director, Special Olympics Bharat and Rukn Kizilbash, General Manager, WWE India. Ashish Shelar, MLA & President of BJP Mumbai, was the Guest of Honor and was joined by Special Olympics Bharat athletes, who will be representing India at the World Games later this month. The athletes wore their new Team India uniforms, which were also unveiled at the event.

“I have always looked forward to such initiatives where the message of goodwill can be spread through sport,” said Shelar. “I thank WWE for supporting these wonderful athletes. I know for a fact that all of India will be backing them and wish them the very best.”

Special Olympics Bharat’s delegation consists of more than 320 athletes, coaches and officials. The athletes are participating in athletics, aquatics, bocce, basketball, badminton, table tennis, volleyball, softball, football, powerlifting, roller skating, handball, cycling and golf.

“The time has come once again for our athletes to prove their mettle at a grand international event. We have celebrated victories in the past and are very sure that our champions will once again earn laurels for our country,” said Air Marshal Denzil Keelor, CEO, Special Olympics Bharat. “It is especially pleasing to see an increase in our participation with each subsequent World Games, and it is very heartening to see WWE coming forward and supporting our program so strongly. I’m really thankful to them, and I wish Team India my best!”

WWE will utilize all its platforms including TV, digital and social media to generate awareness and support for the World Games. WWE Superstars and Divas will participate in various events in conjunction with the promotion of LA2015. Big Show will serve as a Global Ambassador for LA2015, appearing at the Opening Ceremony, awarding medals to athletes and providing support through social media.

“WWE will use the power of our global brand to highlight these courageous and inspirational athletes and promote the message of acceptance and inclusion,” said Rukn Kizilbash, General Manager, WWE India. “We look forward to cheering them on later this month in Los Angeles.”

The 2015 World Games will celebrate Special Olympics’ global movement that unleashes the human spirit through sports. LA2015 will be the largest event held in Los Angeles since the 1984 Olympic Games. More than 7,000 athletes representing 177 countries will compete in 25 Olympic-style sporting events with the support of 3,000 coaches, 30,000 volunteers and as many as 500,000 spectators.

“WWE’s Superstars and Divas encourage and inspire our athletes around the world,” said Vaz. “We are proud to partner with WWE to support our team in India, and help spread the message that every individual deserves a platform to showcase their talent.”