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Warrior Games Returning to Walt Disney World
he Department of Defense Warrior Games will return to the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex at Walt Disney World Resort from August 7–14, 2027. First established in 2010, the annual adaptive sports competition honors the courage, resilience, and recovery journeys of wounded, ill, and injured military service members and veterans.
This marks the third time the resort has hosted the event, following competitions in 2022 and 2024.
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What Are the Warrior Games?
The Warrior Games go far beyond athletic achievement. Designed as a pillar of recovery and reconditioning, the competition provides military members an opportunity to showcase physical strength and mental toughness while building community and mutual support.
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During the 2027 Games, nearly 200 competitors will participate across 12 adaptive sports:
- Archery
- Cycling
- Field events
- Indoor rowing
- Pickleball
- Powerlifting
- Precision air
- Sitting volleyball
- Swimming
- Track
- Wheelchair basketball
- Wheelchair rugby
Athletes will represent all branches of the United States military across five teams: Army, Marine Corps, Navy/Coast Guard, Air Force/Space Force, and Special Operations Command (SOCOM).
Commemorating the Announcement
To unveil the return of the event, representatives from Disney leadership, Warrior Games organizers, community partners, sponsors, and former competitors gathered at the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex for a press presentation and pickleball demonstration.
As part of the announcement festivities, U.S. Army veteran and Warrior Games competitor Tony Smith was honored during the daily Flag Retreat ceremony in Magic Kingdom on August 6. Guests gathered in Town Square applauded Smith to recognize his service and sacrifice.
Disney’s Legacy of Military Support
The Walt Disney Company’s connection to the armed forces dates back more than a century to co-founders Walt and Roy O. Disney, both of whom served during World War I. Today, Disney continues to honor that tradition through military discounts, veteran hiring initiatives, and hosting events like the Warrior Games at the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex.
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