Jose Perurena, President of the International World Games Association, declared Chengdu's hosting of the 2023 World Games as the "finest edition in the event's history" during an exclusive interview. The non-Olympic multisport event, featuring disciplines like wushu and dragon boat racing, showcased China's organizational prowess while blending modernity with cultural heritage.
A Stage for Innovation and Tradition
Perurena highlighted Chengdu's bold decision to host the Opening Ceremony outside a traditional stadium, calling it "one of the most spectacular" in World Games history. The city's green spaces and infrastructure drew praise as symbols of China's development, with the Spanish official noting: "Chengdu has shown it can host any major international event."
Balancing Youth Appeal and Cultural Roots
The 2025 Games program balances emerging sports like motor surfing with traditional disciplines. "Dragon boat racing will be a standout success," Perurena predicted, emphasizing its cultural significance. Organizers collaborate with analytics firms to track youth trends, ensuring the event remains dynamic while maintaining IOC recognition standards.
Breaking Barriers in Sports
This year's Games achieved a gender parity milestone, with 15 more female than male competitors. A groundbreaking "baby room" policy provided childcare support for athlete mothers—a first in the event's history. "There are no first-class and second-class athletes—only athletes," Perurena stated, underscoring his legacy of ensuring Olympic-level conditions for all participants.
The 80-year-old administrator chose Chengdu as his farewell stage, confident the city's execution marked a new chapter for global sports diplomacy.
