On 7 August 2024, the countdown officially begins for The World Games Chengdu 2025, which will take place from 7-17 August next year. More than 4,000 athletes from over 100 countries are set to compete in this worldclass multi-sport event, featuring 35 sports.
To mark this significant milestone, an IWGA delegation participated in festivities held across three major Chinese cities: Beijing, Hong Kong, and Chengdu. The celebrations included a variety of promotional activities, such as korfball and flying-disc demonstrations, along with try-on sessions for local residents. These events underscored the enthusiasm and commitment of not only the participating athletes but also the local sports communities.
Beijing Celebrations
In Beijing, a press conference was held on 6 August at the General Administration of Sport of China (GAAS) to update the public on the progress of sport competition organisation, venues development, and the cultural programmes planned for TWG 2025. During this event, the official slogan, mascots, and merchandise for TWG 2025 were unveiled.
Hong Kong Highlights
Hong Kong hosted a promotional tour named "TWG Chengdu-HK Railway," along with an official reception. Train compartments were adorned with TWG branding elements, and a special reception celebrated the One-Year-to-Go milestone.
Chengdu Festivities
The One-Year-to-Go Countdown Ceremony took place at the International Friendship Hall within the venue of the International Horticultural Exhibition 2024 Chengdu. Attendees included representatives from the IWGA, GAAS, Sichuan Province, Chengdu Municipality, world champions, the Chinese National Korfball Team, and local citizens. The ceremony featured the premiere of the One-Year-to-Go promotional video, speeches, and the official unveiling of the TWG 2025 slogan, mascots, and uniforms. Additionally, sports demonstrations and try-on sessions were organised to engage the local community and raise awareness about the upcoming games.
A special highlight of the ceremony was the unveiling of the countdown clock located in Taikoo Li, provided by IWGA sponsor Tissot.
IWGA President José Perurena commented on the LOC work: "Your dedication, hard work, and commitment have been nothing short of extraordinary. The meticulous planning, the seamless coordination, and the passion you bring to the preparations are evident in every aspect of your work. Chengdu sets a standard of excellence that inspires us all. With one year to go, the excitement in the air is palpable. We can already feel the energy and anticipation building up as we count down the days to next year's Games."
The World Games 2025 Mascots
Introducing the official mascots of TWG Chengdu 2025: SHU BAO, a panda, and JIN ZAI, a monkey. These mascots were chosen for their representation of Sichuan province's rich natural beauty and the vibrant city of Chengdu. Their endearing appearances aim to captivate both children and adults, adding charm and proximity to the competitions.
The World Games 2025 Slogan
The chosen slogan for TWG 2025 is Boundless Sports, Countless Wonders. This slogan encapsulates the diversity and intensity of the sports featured in the event, as well as the many experiences and possibilities Chengdu offers to its residents and visitors.
In his speech for the occasion, IWGA President concluded by saying: "We are confident that Chengdu will deliver a successful, wonderful, and outstanding edition of The World Games with its solid experience and unique sense of hospitality. To the athletes who are training tirelessly, we are excited to see you all in Chengdu. Your hard work and dedication are the heart and soul of The World Games. To the volunteers, sponsors, and supporters, your contributions are invaluable, and your enthusiasm fuels our collective spirit. To the spectators and fans, both in Chengdu and around the world, your excitement and support will create an atmosphere that is truly unforgettable."
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.
