Lausanne, Switzerland – April 25, 2026 – The International World Games Association (IWGA) today officially announced the sports programme for The World Games 2029, set to be held in Karlsruhe, Germany. This significant announcement follows the ratification of the programme by IWGA Members at their Annual General Meeting, hosted at the Olympic Museum in Lausanne. The event in Karlsruhe is scheduled to take place from July 19 to 29, 2029, and is expected to draw approximately 4,000 athletes from over 100 countries, making it one of the largest global multi-sport gatherings.

The confirmed sports for the initial phase include a wide array of disciplines, reflecting the IWGA's dedication to diversity, innovation, and sustainability. Among the sports are Air Sports (TBC), American Football, Archery, Billiards, Boules Sports, Canoe, Cheerleading, Climbing, DanceSport, Fistball, Floorball, Flying Disc, Gymnastics, Handball, Hockey, Ju-Jitsu, Karate, Kickboxing, Korfball, Lacrosse, Life Saving, Muaythai, Orienteering, Powerlifting, Roller Sports, Squash, Sumo, Tug of War, Underwater Sports, Waterski/Wakeboard, and Wushu.

Further sports are under consideration for inclusion, with final approval from the IWGA Executive Committee expected by July 1, 2026. These potential additions include Baseball/Softball, Bowling, Racquetball, and Sambo. A second phase of programme finalization later in 2026 will complete the lineup, encompassing the announcement of specific disciplines, medal events, and the selection of additional sports by the host city, as well as the inclusion of para-sports.

IWGA Sports Director Sebastian Garvens highlighted the programme's aim to showcase sporting excellence and provide a platform for athletes and sports to grow. "We have selected a programme that is dynamic and balanced, combining established sports with emerging disciplines and ensuring that every athlete can compete in an environment worthy of their talent," Garvens stated.

Karlsruhe, Germany, will be hosting The World Games for the second time, having previously organized the event in 1989. This marks Karlsruhe as the first city to host the multi-sport event twice since its inception.

The ratification of the sports programme is a key milestone, with the IWGA expressing confidence that Karlsruhe 2029 will be a remarkable celebration of sport. The event aims to underscore the strong connection between sport and society, acting as a unique platform for emerging sports, innovation, and international collaboration.