As we mark the milestone of just 100 days to go until The World Games 2025 in Chengdu, China, we are thrilled to celebrate the journey ahead with one of our most valued partners—Tissot.
A long-standing supporter of The World Games, Tissot has consistently brought world-class precision, innovation, and excellence to our event. We are incredibly grateful for their continued trust and support.
As a symbol of this strong partnership, Tissot unveiled an official countdown clock in Taikoo Li Square in Chengdu last summer, marking one year until the Games begin. This iconic installation stands as a visual reminder of the excitement to come and highlights Tissot’s commitment to both The World Games and its connection with fans in China.
As part of their ongoing collaboration with the IWGA, Tissot is also proud to support the athletes directly. Throughout 2025, Tissot will provide exclusive watches to honour the IWGA Athletes of the Month and Athletes of the Day, with the latter being awarded onsite each day at TWG Plaza during the Games. This initiative reinforces Tissot’s commitment to recognising the achievements and dedication of The World Games athletes.
To commemorate this exciting countdown, the IWGA is pleased to share an exclusive interview with Sylvain Dolla, CEO of Tissot, who speaks about the brand’s deep connection to The World Games, its role in shaping the future of sport, and what makes Chengdu 2025 a landmark moment for both Tissot and global sport fans.
- Tissot is a globally recognised brand with a rich history in sports timekeeping. What makes The World Games a valuable platform for Tissot, and how does this partnership reinforce your commitment to international sports?
For years, we’ve been the official timekeeper for major events like the NBA, the Tour de France, and MotoGP, so joining The World Games felt like a natural fit.
It’s an event that celebrates a wide variety of disciplines some that are growing fast and really speak to the future of sport. The athletes competing reflect values that matter to us: dedication and pushing limits.
By supporting The World Games, we’re not only reinforcing our commitment to sport worldwide, we’re making sure every performance is measured with Swiss precision.
- The World Games features a diverse range of sports, including emerging, trendy, and non-Olympic disciplines. How does supporting such an event align with Tissot’s vision for sports partnerships and target group, and what excites Tissot about bringing its timing expertise, through SwissTiming, to such a dynamic event?
The World Games are a great opportunity to shine a light on sports that aren’t yet in the Olympics but still showcase incredible passion and skill. That kind of variety really aligns with our mindset.
We’ve always focused on supporting sports that innovate and inspire, whether it was introducing the shot clock in basketball or photo-finish technology in cycling. These kinds of events allow us to keep pushing forward.
Many of the disciplines featured in The World Games resonate with younger audiences and we’re proud to deliver world-class timing and help make every second count, no matter the sport.
- With The World Games 2025 taking place in Chengdu, China—Tissot’s largest market—how does this partnership enhance Tissot’s connection with Chinese sports fans and watch consumers?
China is an important market for Tissot, and The World Games in Chengdu are a great opportunity to strengthen that connection. It allows us to be part of a meaningful event locally, while also connecting with a broad audience, from passionate fans to those just discovering new sports.
It’s also a chance to share our expertise in a way that feels tangible, through precise timekeeping, yes, but also through special editions and experiences that create a lasting impression.
- Last summer, Tissot, together with the Chengdu 2025 LOC, unveiled a countdown clock in Taikoo Li Square in Chengdu to mark one year until The World Games 2025. Could you share the significance of this installation for Tissot?
The countdown clock in Taikoo Li Square is a symbol of Tissot’s strong support for The World Games and stands as a reminder of the upcoming competition, building anticipation for both athletes and fans. Its placement in the heart of Chengdu allows us to connect directly with the local community, reinforcing Tissot’s presence in China while celebrating what’s to come.
- The IWGA is proud to have Tissot as an official partner, reinforcing the prestige of The World Games. Beyond 2025, how do you see this collaboration evolving, and what long-term impact would you like it to have for both Tissot and The World Games?
We share a strong connection with The World Games through our passion for excellence and commitment to global sport. Beyond 2025, we’re excited to keep building on this partnership, bringing new ways to elevate the experience, from sharper timing tech to real-time data that makes every moment count.
It’s also a chance for us to connect with new audiences and show how performance and design go hand in hand. For us, it’s never just about keeping time it’s about supporting the evolution of sport and the people who make it thrive.