The World Games 2025 marked a major milestone today with the official opening of the Athletes’ Village — just four days ahead of the much-anticipated event, set to take place from 7 to 17 August.
The state-of-the-art Village, comprising Zones A and B, will host over 4,000 athletes from 114 countries and regions competing across 34 sports and 60 disciplines. More than just accommodation, the Villages are designed to foster a sense of unity, well-being, and peak performance for the world’s top athletes.
Village A will house athletes, coaches, and International Federation (IF) officials from sports including: Air Sports, American Football, Billiards, Boules, Canoe, Cheerleading, Fistball, Flying Disc (Ultimate), Gymnastics, Handball, Ju-Jitsu, Karate, Korfball, Lacrosse, Life Saving, Orienteering, Powerboating, SAMBO, Sport Climbing, Triathlon, Tug of War, Underwater Sports, and WaterSki & Wakeboard.
Village B will welcome participants from Archery, Baseball-Softball, DanceSport, Floorball, Flying Disc (Disc Golf), Kickboxing, Muaythai, Powerlifting, Racquetball, Roller Sports, Squash, and Wushu — highlighting the diversity of disciplines and cultural expressions represented at The World Games.
Delegations from National Olympic Committees (NOCs) and National Sports Organizations (NSOs) will primarily be based in Village A. Meanwhile, the IWGA Family — including international guests and key stakeholders — will be accommodated at the Intercontinental Century City Hotel, the designated headquarters in Village B.
A vibrant opening ceremony saw the Village Mayor take the stage, followed by the collective oath of the TWG Village Executive Mayors and staff representatives, alongside the formal handover of the Village Flag.
Speaking at the ceremony, IWGA CEO Joachim Gossow emphasized the significance of the occasion:
“This Village is where dreams will begin, personal bests will be achieved, and lifelong friendships will be formed. More than housing, these Villages are the beating heart of The World Games — places where athletes find rest, recovery, and a shared sense of purpose.”
He continued:
“The care and precision shown by the Local Organizing Committee have set a new standard for athlete accommodation at The World Games. From modern infrastructure and thoughtful layouts to world-class services, every element reflects a deep respect for the athletes and the spirit of our Games.”
Both Villages are fully equipped with comprehensive services — including medical and chiropractic clinics, multilingual support hubs, dining halls offering global cuisines, laundry facilities, and dedicated training and recreation areas — all carefully designed to meet the diverse needs of the athletes and ensure an unforgettable Games experience.
Among the sports taking center stage is Muaythai, which has become a pillar of The World Games since its debut as a full program sport in 2017. Recognized by the IOC and celebrated for its balance of ancient tradition and modern athleticism, Muaythai returns to The World Games with a powerful delegation of elite nak muay, cultural performers, and officials.
Statement from IFMA President Dr. Sakchye Tapsuwan:
“The Athletes’ Village is more than just accommodation — it is a sacred gathering place where cultures converge and the global Muaythai family comes together in unity. For our nak muay, it is a home away from home, where they live the values of Muaythai: respect, honour, tradition, and the warrior spirit.
To represent Muaythai at The World Games is both a privilege and a responsibility. We bring with us centuries of heritage, but also the dreams of today’s youth. The Village is where bonds are forged, knowledge is shared, and our athletes prepare to carry the Thai art of eight limbs onto the world stage.
The World Games is where the beauty of our culture meets the challenge of global competition — and Muaythai is ready to rise.”
As the final preparations unfold, excitement builds among the Muaythai athletes and officials who know that The World Games offers not only a stage for medals — but a platform for cultural celebration, friendship, and unity through sport.