16 December 2024, Lausanne, Switzerland – The International World Games Association (IWGA) is pleased to announce the launch of the Athletes Committee (AC) election process, an integral initiative that will culminate at The World Games 2025 Chengdu.
This milestone represents a vital opportunity for athletes to shape the future of the IWGA, ensuring their voices are even more represented in the governance of the organisation.
The election process is open to candidates nominated by their respective International Member Federations, with each federation eligible to propose two nominees—one male and one female. Nominations officially open on 16 December 2024 and must be submitted by 17 March 2025.
The IWGA encourages federations to carefully consider candidates who embody the values of The World Games and are committed to representing their peers in advancing the interests of the IWGA community.
Comprehensive information about the election process, the responsibilities of the IWGA Athletes Committee, and eligibility criteria is detailed in the AC Election Rules . In parrallel, all International Member Federations have received a Candidature Pack which provides essential guidelines, including forms, documents, and required materials for prospective candidates.
Election Timeline
- Nomination supported by an IWGA Member , 17 March 2025
- Eligibility vetting of athletes seeking to run for election, 28 April 2025
- Publication of Candidates’ list and start of Campaign Period, 19 May 2025
- Elections, 03-16 August 2025
- IWGA Executive Committee approval of Election Results, 25 August
- Appointment by IWGA President, By 20 October 2025, at the latest
Seven positions on the IWGA Athletes Committee are available, and, candidates will be selected by their peers through a hybrid online and on-site digital voting system which will take place during the Games in Chengdu. The IWGA President will have the right to select two additional qualified candidates, following the announcement of the initial seven, to balance the Athletes Committee if required.
Currently, Karateka Sandra Sánchez serves as the IWGA interim Athletes Committee Chair. She shared her thoughts on this important milestone: “As athletes, we are the core of The World Games, and the Athletes Committee is our platform to ensure our voices are heard. This election offers a rare chance to influence the direction of our organisation's future. I strongly encourage all eligible athletes to step forward, share their passion, and contribute to making a meaningful impact.”
“This election underscores our commitment to athlete participation in shaping the future of The World Games,” added IWGA President, José Perurena. “We look forward to receiving nominations that reflect the diversity of our global sporting family.”
For further details about the election process and nomination submissions, please contact the team at [email protected]
AC Election Rules are available to download here.
The International World Games Association (IWGA) is a non-profit-making international sports organisation recognised and supported by the International Olympic Committee. The IWGA comprises 40 International Member Sports Federations. It administers and promotes The World Games (TWG), a multi-sport event held every four years that features around 35 sports on its programme. The next edition of TWG will be in Chengdu (CHN) from 7-17 August 2025. 5,000 participants from more than 100 countries are expected to take part in this 12th edition. The latest Games were hosted by Birmingham, Alabama (USA).
For more information, please contact the IWGA Media and Communication team: [email protected], Tel: +41 21 311 12 97, or visit our website.
