Karlsruhe, Germany, 9 December 2025 - The International World Games Association (IWGA) and the Local Organising Committee (LOC) of The World Games 2029 Karlsruhe on 8 December held their 1st Coordination Committee (CoCom) Meeting, marking the official start of detailed preparations for the 13th edition of The World Games.
The meeting brought together an IWGA delegation led by IWGA President José Perurena and representatives of the Karlsruhe 2029 team to review the organisational framework, establish working structures, and begin the joint journey toward the Games.
Key topics included the LOC’s organisational roadmap, budget and financial planning, services for athletes and International Federations (IFs), marketing and sustainability strategies, and the sports programme timeline leading up to ratification at the IWGA AGM in 2026.
Yesterday's gathering also featured two symbolic moments: a flag hosting ceremony, and a book signing ceremony celebrating the start of the new partnership. These highlights signalled the shared commitment and enthusiasm as preparations for 2029 officially come to life.
IWGA President José Perurena praised the productive start:
“Karlsruhe is a city with deep roots in The World Games, having already hosted the event in 1989. It is inspiring to see this proud history now continue with such energy and professionalism. Today’s meeting sets a solid foundation for our cooperation, and we are excited to begin this journey together toward an exceptional edition of The World Games in 2029.”
Karlsruhe becomes the first city ever to host The World Games for a second time, underscoring both its proven capability and its long-standing dedication to international sports.
LOC President and Lord Mayor Frank Mentrup emphasised the city’s commitment:
“The World Games represent an extraordinary opportunity for Karlsruhe, just as they did in 1989. We are honoured to bring the event back to our community and to Germany. Today marks the beginning of an inspiring collaboration with the IWGA, and together we will work to create a festival of sport and international friendship in 2029.”
LOC CEO Martin Wacker added:
“This first CoCom meeting shows how ready and motivated our team is. The exchange with the IWGA experts will guide our next steps, and we look forward to shaping a memorable edition of The World Games that reflects both innovation and tradition.”
The next key milestone in the joint preparation process will be TWG 2025 Chengdu Debrief to collect National Olympic Committees and National Sport Organisations’ feedback, held from12–13 January 2026 in Frankfurt, followed by the IWGA Annual General Assembly in April 2026. The 2nd CoCom meeting with take place in March 2026.
Photos ©TWG2029 - Jürgen Rösner