Genuine Cup welcomes over 1,000 neurodiverse athletes

The World Cup may have ended, but Houston is welcoming another international soccer tournament all this week. The Genuine Cup brings together athletes with intellectual disabilities and autism from across the world.

"It is a rapidly growing platform built around inclusion," said Genuine Cup volunteer Kathleen Sledge. "It is simultaneously part of the Genuine Connect, which is a forum for a pathway to employability for people with IDD and autism."

The tournament, held at Rice University, started with 12 teams in 2024, and grew to 38 teams in 2025. This year, more than 1,000 athletes representing 53 countries are competing in the Genuine Cup.

"Every year, they know more people, they meet more people, they're more excited to come," said Genuine Cup volunteer Bettina Staartjets. "They get to interact and be socially active, which is very challenging for most of these players."

"Its really amazing," said Genuine Cup athlete Bruno Balebl. "Good people and a good opportunity. All of the people around are very kind."

Players, families and coaches say the tournament is about much more than just a game, but an opportunity for inclusion and visibility on a global stage.

"Of course, there is competition there and a lot of teams want to make it to the finals, but at the end of the day its all about sportsmanship, inclusion and sharing love of the sport," said Peter Staartjets, Netherlands Team Ambassador. "I love to see that. That's part of the reason I'm here today, and probably part of the reason why I'll be back next year."

The Genuine Cup wraps up on Saturday, August 1st, with Fan Fest and the Finals. Doors open at Rice Stadium at 4:30 p.m., and fans are invited to enjoy food, drinks and entertainment. The Closing Ceremony starts at 7:15 p.m., where fans can see the champions crowned and a parade of all the teams.

"You have to come here and experience this," said Ignacio Torras, Houston restauranteur and co-founder of the Genuine Cup. "The joy, the hugs, the satisfaction of all these players is absolutely unique. There's not a single moment that's not pure kindness and joy."

Parking and admission are free, but tickets to the Genuine Cup must be reserved in advance. For more information, visit genuinecup.org.