TWG 2025 makes history with first-ever Torch Relay in Chengdu

TWG 2025 makes history with first-ever Torch Relay in Chengdu

published on 26 July

Sanxingdui Museum hosts symbolic lighting to mark the beginning of The World Games 2025 journey

Chengdu (CHN), 26 July 2025 – In a historic moment for The World Games, the first-ever Torch Relay took place on Saturday 26 July 2025, in the cultural heart of Sichuan Province at the iconic Sanxingdui Museum in the city of Deyang, near Chengdu. This milestone event celebrates the kick-off start of TWG 2025, which will be hosted from 7-17 August 2025 across 27 indoors and outdoors venues, welcoming 4000+ athletes from close to 120 countries and regions competing in 34 sports and 60 unique disciplines.

The torch was first lit in a ceremonial event attended by the following Chinese officials: Minister of the General Administration of Sport of China, Mr. Gao Zhidan, Secretary of the CPC Sichuan Provincial Committee and Chairman of the Standing Committee of Sichuan Provincial People’s Congress, Mr. Wang Xiaohui, Governor of the People’s Government of Sichuan Province, Mrs. Shi Xiaolin, Member of the Standing Committee of the CPC Sichuan Provincial Committee and Secretary of the CPC Chengdu Municipal Committee, Mr. Cao Lijun, Mayor of the People’s Government of Chengdu Municipality, Mr. Wang Fengchao. In addition, several sporting legends and cultural figures were present, and a special video message was delivered by IWGA President José Perurena:

“This moment marks a first in the history of The World Games, and it begins right here, in the cultural heart of Sichuan Province—at the magnificent Sanxingdui Museum in the city of Deyang. The Torch Relay is more than a symbolic journey; it is a celebration of unity, friendship, and the spirit of The World Games.

“As the flame travels across this beautiful region of China, it will carry the passion and determination of our athletes, and the dedication and hard work of our organisers. This flame is a powerful symbol—an inspiration that reflects our shared values of sporting excellence, diversity, and peace through sport.”

Torchbearers: A diverse representation

The inaugural relay featured 120 torchbearers, each symbolising a different aspect of society, excellence, and global connection. Leading the historic relay was Chinese Gymnastics super star and Olympic champion Huang Zhangjiayang who was followed by Olympic and The World Games Karate champion Sandra Sanchez. Among the runners were also internationally acclaimed actor Jackie Chan, and Table Tennis two-time Olympic champion and three-time World champion Ma Long. Lifesaving champion Marcel Hassemeier carried the flame to its final handover of the day.

Among the torchbearers selected by the IWGA were three great The World Games athletes:

  • Marcel Hassemeier (GER – Lifesaving)
  • Sofia Olofsson (SWE – Muaythai)
  • Sandra Sanchez (ESP – Karate)

Joining them were representatives from 12 sectors of society, highlighting the broad and inclusive values of The World Games:

  • Arts: Chang Shilei (musician); Tang Liangliang (intangible cultural heritage inheritor)
  • Technology: Ma Junchao (CEO, Asia Security); panda research experts James Ayde (UK) and Alhaji (Algeria); Xie Yu (Sichuan Aerospace Dynamics)
  • Cultural Exchange: Fang Zhenghua and Bao Anchao (Chengdu Homies Street Dance Team)
  • Sports: Han Cong (Winter Olympic champion)
  • Education: Wang Shengning (student, East Alliance Art College, Malaysia)
  • Media & Publishing: Xiong Xiong (Ya’an Media Center)
  • Telecommunications: Zhang Baoyu (chief expert, China Telecom Group)
  • Grassroots Work: Tan Jinqiao (panda base keeper)
  • Craftsmanship: Liang Enrong (model craftsman, Pangang Group)
  • Rural Revitalization: Zhao Hailing (national rural youth leader)
  • Labor Models: Zheng Wei (national labor model)

Other well-known torchbearers for public spotlight included Fang Zhenghua (Chengdu Homies), Tan Jinqiao (panda keeper), and Zhao Hailing (rural youth leader).

A Flame of inspiration

The launch of the TWG Torch Relay represents not only a symbolic start to the Games, but a powerful tribute to diversity of this multi-sport event. With Chengdu preparing to welcome the world from 7-17 August, this journey marks a new chapter in The World Games history—uniting athletes from diverse and trendy sports, cultures, and communities through the unifying power of sport.

Where to Watch

All the excitement, Opening and Closing Ceremonies, and competitions of TWG 2025 will be available to fans around the world live and on demand (VoD) via The World Games Live, the IWGA’s brand-new official streaming platform.

The competition schedule and the qualified athletes can be found here.

The International World Games Association (IWGA) is a non-profit-making international sports organisation recognised and supported by the International Olympic Committee. The IWGA comprises 40 International Member Sports Federations. It administers and promotes The World Games (TWG), a multi-sport event held every four years that features around 35 sports on its programme. The next edition of TWG will be in Chengdu (CHN) from 7-17 August 2025. 5,000 participants from more than 100 countries are expected to take part in this 12th edition. The latest Games were hosted by Birmingham, Alabama (USA).

For more information, please contact the IWGA Media and Communication team:
[email protected], Tel: +41 21 311 12 97, or visit our website.