Games preparations have 'exceeded expectations', says IWGA president

The World Games' role in promoting sports outside the Olympic program was underscored by both leaders. Perurena highlighted its function as a proving ground: "We represent the sports that are recognized by the International Olympic Committee (IOC), but are not in the Olympic Games. They need our Games to show they are ready."

Gossow reinforced this, noting the growing convergence. "When you look at the IOC's choice of sports for future Olympics, nearly all are World Games sports," he said, further challenging perceptions. "Being Olympic or non-Olympic is not a sign of being good or bad."

Having hosted the 2023 FISU World University Games, Chengdu's accelerated development stunned IWGA officials. Gossow, who attended the University Games in Chengdu, observed: "I'm even more impressed how much more effort they put, now, into promoting the World Games. The venues, the look of the Games and all the services."

China will field its largest delegation ever — 489 members, including 321 athletes competing across 28 sports. The team will debut in 12 sports, and it marks China's first delegation of para-athletes at the Games.

Running from Aug 7 to 17, the Chengdu World Games will feature 34 sports, 60 disciplines and 256 events, with approximately 5,000 athletes from around 110 countries and regions competing.

Xinhua