PARIS – Ahead of World Autism Awareness Day on April 2nd, Paris Saint-Germain demonstrated a powerful commitment to inclusion, hosting nearly 1,000 young people – both with and without autism spectrum disorder – at the Parc des Princes on April 1st. The event, organized by PSG for Communities in collaboration with Naked Heart France, Maïa Autisme, and the Sport & Citoyenneté think tank, was a resounding success, filled with sporting activities, joyful interaction, and a clear message of acceptance.
The initiative centered around a “Sport & Autisme” village, offering a diverse range of activities designed to foster connection and understanding. Children participated in football, handball, karate, and other sports, alongside presentations of PSG trophies and a captivating freestyle football show. The atmosphere was one of pure enjoyment, even as a light rain fell throughout the afternoon, with sensory activities and a kit customization station available for those seeking shelter.
Stars Share the Field, and the Message
The presence of PSG stars significantly amplified the impact of the day. International midfielder Warren Zaïre-Emery, a patron of the association, emphasized the importance of such events, recalling his own childhood experiences. “When I was younger, I participated in actions organized by the Foundation, and I wished the players would come and spend time with me,” he said. “Personally, that’s what I enjoy doing, and it likewise allows me to step away from football.”
Sakina Karchaoui, captain of the PSG women’s team, echoed this sentiment, highlighting the values of sharing and solidarity that underpin her upbringing. “Today, giving visibility to inclusion through sport is a given,” she stated. Her teammate, goalkeeper Océane Toussaint, powerfully articulated the core message of the day: “You don’t have to grasp someone to be touched or to support them. They are like us, and we are like them.”
The event wasn’t just about providing a fun day out; it was about building bridges and challenging perceptions. For many of the children involved, it was an opportunity to experience the joy of sport in a supportive and inclusive environment. For others, it was a chance to learn about autism and develop a greater understanding of neurodiversity.
PSG One Team: A Year-Round Commitment to Inclusion
The event at the Parc des Princes is a key component of PSG One Team, one of four flagship programs run by the Paris Saint-Germain Foundation. PSG One Team specifically focuses on creating inclusive football teams that bring together children with autism and neurotypical children. This program, which also operates in Lille, Doha, and will soon expand to Casablanca, provides a consistent platform for social interaction and the development of essential life skills.
Yannis, a 10-year-old participant from Pantin, perfectly captured the spirit of the program. “Actually, there’s no difference,” he said. “I enjoy it just as much as I do in club football; everyone is the same.” His experience underscores the power of sport to transcend differences and foster a sense of belonging.
The impact of PSG’s commitment to inclusion has been formally recognized. In 2025, the Sport & Citoyenneté think tank awarded PSG One Team its “Impact Social du Sport” label at the gold level, acknowledging the program’s significant contribution to social responsibility.
Building a Reality of Inclusion
Natalia Vodianova, president of the partner organization Naked Heart, powerfully summarized the overarching goal. “Inclusion isn’t a concept; it’s a reality we build together.” Fabien Allègre, the PSG brand director, reinforced this message, stating, “Our commitment to inclusion is the true definition of the term for Paris Saint-Germain: we don’t separate children; we teach them to play together.”
PSG for Communities has been dedicated to supporting disadvantaged or sick children, young people, and communities in need since its creation in 2000. The foundation’s perform extends beyond sporting initiatives, encompassing programs like Cantine Solidaire (providing meals to students in need), Allez les Filles (empowering young girls through sports and cultural activities), and Ecole ROUGE & BLEU (offering educational and sports programs).
The event at the Parc des Princes served as a powerful reminder that sport has the unique ability to unite people, break down barriers, and create a more inclusive society. As Ethan, the 16-year-old attendee, aptly put it, “I wish there were days like this every day.”
PSG for Communities will continue its weekly training sessions at various locations across Paris and beyond. The next scheduled event is slated for April, offering another opportunity for children to connect through the power of sport.
