Chengdu, China – 10 August 2025 – The International World Games Association (IWGA) has taken another major step in strengthening its ties with National Olympic Committees (NOCs).
During the opening days of The World Games 2025 in Chengdu, China, three NOCs formally signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the IWGA—marking a new milestone in the organisation’s global engagement. With these latest agreements, the IWGA now has partnerships with 23 NOCs and National Sports Organisations (NSOs) worldwide.
IWGA President José Perurena signed the MoUs with the NOCs of Kazakhstan, Saudi Arabia, and Slovakia.
In parallel, IWGA CEO Joachim Gossow and Deputy CEO Guillaume Felli held constructive discussions with the NOCs of the Philippines and Korea regarding potential interest in hosting The World Games after the 2029 edition in Karlsruhe, Germany, for The World Games 2033.
President Perurena welcomed the new collaborations, stating:
“The Games provide the perfect opportunity to sign such agreements. Our partners experience the spirit of our event firsthand and gain a clear sense of what it means to be part of The World Games family. For us, it is crucial to reach more regions around the world. The agreement with Slovakia strengthens our position in Europe. Colombia, the host of our 2013 Games, serves as a lighthouse for South America. Kazakhstan will help us further integrate The World Games into Central Asia, while Saudi Arabia signifies a stronger presence for the IWGA in the Middle East.”
The MoUs establish a framework for strategic cooperation in key areas such as knowledge sharing, joint initiatives, and capacity-building projects to advance shared objectives. The agreements also outline commitments to support each other’s activities, foster innovation, and create opportunities for sustainable growth. Both parties reaffirm their dedication to strengthening ties, leveraging expertise, and working toward common goals that will have a lasting global impact.
The IWGA remains committed to expanding its international network and engaging with more nations. The ongoing The World Games in Chengdu offer a unique opportunity to connect with NOCs and NSOs face to face. Currently, 30 NOCs and NSOs are on-site, supporting their athletes in pursuit of excellence.
Perurena emphasised: “For most athletes, The World Games are the pinnacle of their careers. Becoming a champion here is a highlight for many. It is vital that more NOCs and NSOs recognize the significance of this event for their athletes. We don’t need to persuade their representatives to join the IWGA—it’s evident why all parties benefit from strong, ongoing cooperation.”
Anton Siekel, Slovak Olympic a Sports Committee President said:
“We see our cooperation with the IWGA and The World Games as a great opportunity for the development of non-Olympic sports in Slovakia. For their athletes, it is a chance to experience the atmosphere of a major multi-sport event and to present themselves among the world’s elite. Slovak Olympic a Sports Committee will continue to stand by non-Olympic athletes and supporting every competitor – whether they are part of an Olympic or a non-Olympic sport. We look forward to working closely with the IWGA.“
Mr. Abdulaziz Baeshen, Secretary General and CEO of the Saudi Olympic and Paralympic Committee:
“This MoU marks an important step in deepening our collaboration with the IWGA and integrating The World Games into the fabric of Saudi sport. We are committed to promoting the sports represented in The World Games, providing more opportunities for our athletes, and fostering exchanges that contribute to the development of sport both in the Kingdom and global.”
