FISU gleans valuable knowledge from The World Games 2025 Chengdu

Upon the invitation of the International World Games Association (IWGA), FISU President Leonz Eder and Summer Games Director Jing Zhao participated in The World Games 2025 Chengdu, marking a significant step in strengthening institutional cooperation between the two global sports organisations.

The experience in Chengdu began with their attendance at the spectacular opening ceremony on 7 August. The ceremony’s vibrant display of culture and athletic spirit served as a powerful reminder of the city’s successful hosting of the Chengdu 2021 FISU World University Games (held in 2023), and further cemented its reputation as a premier destination for world-class sports competitions. “The energy and professionalism we’re witnessing here builds directly on our shared experiences from 2023,” President Eder remarked at the ceremony. “Chengdu has demonstrated remarkable versatility in hosting different categories of international events, seamlessly transitioning from university sports to welcoming elite athletes from around the world. This continuity speaks volumes about the city’s organizational capabilities and commitment to sporting excellence.”

Scenes from The World Games 2025 Chengdu opening ceremony

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During their stay, the delegation attended numerous sporting competitions at multiple venues. These sessions, and subsequent meetings with international sports federations, provided valuable insights into event operations, technical standards, athlete performances, and competition formats that could potentially enhance university-level sports programmes. They paid particular attention to sports that feature prominently in both FISU and IWGA events, analysing technical elements and organisational approaches that could benefit future collaboration. The visit also included discussions between the FISU President and IWGA leadership, focusing on potential synergies between their respective events.

Additionally, a key meeting with President Xu of Chengdu Sport University highlighted the institution’s vital role in both the Chengdu 2021 FISU Games and current World Games. “Universities like Chengdu Sport University are the foundation of athletic excellence,” FISU Summer Games Director Zhao noted. “Their programmes create the perfect environment for developing well-rounded competitors prepared for elite, international events.”

Chengdu’s successful execution of both the FISU World University Games and The World Games has established the city as a model for integrated sports development and major event hosting. This unique dual experience provides a valuable case study for future host cities and creates natural synergies between different levels of competition.

The visit concluded with progress made in establishing frameworks for ongoing cooperation that will benefit athletes, coaches, and officials across the university sports and international federation ecosystems. “Our time in Chengdu has opened important new avenues for collaboration that will directly benefit university athletes worldwide,” President Eder stated. “We’re particularly excited about the potential to create more seamless transitions for athletes progressing from university competitions to elite international events. These connections represent a significant step forward in our shared mission to develop sport at all levels.”