Historic First: The World Games 2025 Chengdu unveils inaugural Torch

Historic First: The World Games 2025 Chengdu unveils inaugural Torch

published on 27 February

Chengdu, China, 27 February 2025 – The World Games 2025 Chengdu has reached a historic milestone with the official unveiling of the first-ever Torch designed for The World Games.

For the first time in the event’s history, The World Games will feature a dedicated Torch Relay, adding a new dimension to this prestigious multi-sport competition, which will bring together over 5,000 athletes competing across 34 sports and 60 disciplines.

The design competition for the TWG 2025 Torch attracted over 270 submissions from designers across China, with 10 outstanding proposals shortlisted by leading experts in the field, including Beijing 2022 Winter Olympics Torch designer Li Jianye. The final design, named Zhumeng—Dream Chaser, beautifully merges Chengdu’s rich cultural heritage with the dynamic energy of The World Games.

The Torch’s design is inspired by the iconic bamboo forests of Sichuan, symbolizing resilience and growth, while its elegant, flowing form reflects the Grand Bronze Standing Figure of the ancient Sanxingdui civilization, a tribute to China’s deep historical roots. The incorporation of jade elements represents purity and fairness in sport, while the Torch’s striking green and silver palette highlights Chengdu’s dedication to sustainability and innovation. At its base, a phoenix-shaped holy bird embodies the soaring aspirations of athletes striving for greatness.

As part of this historic moment, 12 distinguished torchbearers will be selected based on their contributions to sport to participate in the inaugural Torch Relay race on 26 July 2025. This landmark relay will extend beyond the host city, carrying the spirit of The World Games to diverse communities, fostering unity, and inspiring sporting dreams across the globe.

IWGA President José Perurena emphasised the significance of the occasion:

“The unveiling of the first-ever Torch for The World Games marks a defining moment in our event’s history. This Torch embodies the passion, unity, and excellence that The World Games represents. As it begins its journey, it will spark excitement and inspiration in communities worldwide.”

With preparations well underway, Chengdu is ready to welcome the world from 7-17 August 2025, delivering an unforgettable 12th edition of The World Games.

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.