Madrid, Spain, 22 January 2026 – The Executive Committee (ExCo) of the International World Games Association (IWGA) met on 21 January in Madrid to review key strategic, operational and governance matters as the organisation moves into an important transition period for The World Games.
During the meeting, the ExCo received comprehensive updates on The World Games 2025 Chengdu, including post-Games evaluations and legacy initiatives, and reviewed progress on preparations for The World Games 2029 Karlsruhe, with particular focus on sports programme development, operational planning and collaboration with IWGA Member federations and key stakeholders.
In addition, the ExCo highlighted ongoing efforts to strengthen collaboration with National Olympic Committees (NOCs) and National Sports Organisations (NSOs) in preparation for The World Games 2029. These efforts were underscored by the recent workshop and debrief held at the German Olympic Sports Confederation (DOSB) headquarters in Frankfurt, which reinforced alignment, information sharing and stakeholder engagement.
The ExCo also discussed future engagement with potential host cities beyond 2029, underlining the IWGA’s commitment to the long-term growth and sustainability of The World Games. Financial planning, budget approvals and governance matters in preparation for the IWGA Annual General Meeting (AGM) 2026 were also addressed.
In parallel, the members took note of ongoing preparations for the IWGA ExCo Elections, which will take place at the AGM on 25 April 2026 in Lausanne (SUI). Timelines and procedures are progressing in accordance with the IWGA Statutes and governance framework.
As part of its commitment to strong governance and professional administration, the ExCo was informed of several organisational updates within the IWGA Administration, including a reorganisation of the Communications Department. The remainder of the Administration remains unchanged and continues to operate under the leadership of IWGA CEO Joachim Gossow.
The IWGA has appointed Camille Bastin as Communications Director, overseeing the organisation’s overall communications strategy across all platforms and stakeholder groups.
Anna Jacobson has been appointed Head of Social Media and Digital Engagement, bringing extensive experience in international sport and digital audience development. Nathalie Querbach has been promoted to Social Media Manager, reflecting her strong performance and growing responsibilities in delivering consistent and engaging digital content.
In addition, Kathy Lang has been appointed Senior Brand Manager, reinforcing the IWGA’s focus on building and protecting a strong, coherent global brand aligned with the values of The World Games. Pascal Zeller has also been appointed Head of Projects, responsible for overseeing the planning and delivery of key strategic initiatives across the organisation.
Commenting on the meeting, IWGA President José Perurena said:
“This ExCo meeting marked an important moment for the IWGA as we look ahead to the next chapter of The World Games. The discussions in Madrid demonstrated the strength of our governance, the professionalism of our administration, and our shared commitment to delivering high-quality events while continuing to evolve as an organisation. I am confident that the foundations we are reinforcing today will benefit The World Games well into the future.”
The ExCo will next convene on 24 April 2026 in Lausanne, on the eve of the AGM and elections, marking the conclusion of President José Perurena’s 12-year presidency.
Prior to this, the IWGA will meet with the organisers of The World Games 2029 Karlsruhe on 1 April 2026 for the second Coordination Committee (CoCom) Meeting, continuing close collaboration with the host city.