Genuine Cup

In 2026, the Consular Corps of Houston supported Genuine Cup organizers and participants for the first time, providing both preparedness assistance and ongoing support.

The Genuine Cup is a global sports tournament hosted by the Genuine Foundation with the mission of advancing inclusion through sport, advocacy, and opportunity for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) and autism.

The Core Purpose

The tournament uses competitive sport — primarily for football — as a platform to:

Promote visibility for athletes with IDD and autism on an international stage.

Build confidence and connection through teamwork, fair play, and community engagement.

Create opportunities for athletes to represent their countries, network with peers, and experience global competition.

How It Works

Scale & Reach: The Genuine Cup has grown from 12 teams in its first year to 54+ teams from

53+ countries in 2026, with over 1,000 athletes participating.

Global Participation

Delegations are organized through national football associations, Paralympic committees, and Special Olympics programs, often with months of outreach by partners like Para Football.

Community Impact

The event is paired with Genuine Connect, a two-day forum for policymakers, diplomats, employers, educators, and advocates to discuss inclusive employment and education pathways.

The Broader Mission

Beyond the tournament, the Genuine Foundation’s mission is to:

Expand access to opportunities for neurodiverse young adults.

Foster inclusion in sports, education, and employment.

Use events like the Genuine Cup and Hope & Opportunity Dinners to raise funds and awareness.

Why It Matters

The Genuine Cup is more than a sporting event — it’s a movement that:

Challenges stereotypes about IDD and autism.

Inspires athletes to see themselves as capable and valued.

Connects global communities through sport and shared purpose.

In short, the Genuine Cup’s mission is to use sport as a catalyst for inclusion, equity, and

opportunity for individuals with IDD and autism, both on and off the field.