It is undeniable that the National Olympic Committees (NOCs) and the National Sports Organisations (NSOs) hold a pivotal position in the promotion of The World Games within their respective countries and amongst their athletes. Their support and collaboration in the promotion of The World Games is key to ensure their athletes’ preparation and participation.
With this in mind and as part of the IWGA’s commitment to its Agenda 2025, the 1st IWGA National Olympic Committees (NOCs) and National Sports Organisations (NSOs) Meeting was held in Madrid (ESP) in October 2023. The aim was to strengthen the IWGA’s relationships with national sports entities and further develop the cooperation to fully integrate the NOCs and NSOs in The World Games Family.
Encouraging outcomes have emerged from this inaugural meeting as, in 2024 only, the IWGA is in the process of signing a series of Memorandum of Understanding (MoUs) with about twenty NOCs / NSOs.
The NOCs/NSOs become increasingly involved in the lead up to The World Games. They often provide financial assistance or equipment and appoint an accompanying team of officials to oversee the athletes during the Games.
While most countries in the world have a recognised NOC, only few countries have an autonomous NSO. Therefore, three different scenarios with regards to the governing bodies for participating athletes can be found at The World Games.
- The NOC and NSO are two separate entities.
- The NOC and NSO are the same body.
- The NSO is a recognised part of the NOC.
All athletes or teams must qualify to participate in TWG in accordance with the rules and regulations of their respective International Federations (IF) which organise qualifying events. In contrast to the Olympic Games, NOCs/NSOs do not nominate the participating athletes for TWG. However, in some exceptions, the International Federations nominate athletes and teams in consultation with the national sports authorities.
