The Hungarian Competitive Sports Federation (NVESZ) celebrated the year with the "NVESZ TWG 2025 Chengdu Gala Celebration," marking Hungary's official launch for The World Games 2025.
Held on December 3 at the Budapest Marriott Hotel, the gala honoured Hungarian athletes who have secured quotas or are striving for qualification. Distinguished attendees included Gong Tao, the Ambassador of the People's Republic of China to Hungary.
Hungarian athletes shine at The World Games
NVESZ President Dr. János Mészáros highlighted the achievements of Hungarian athletes, reporting that 38 competitors have already qualified for Chengdu. Hungary aims to send a delegation of 140–150 members, including around 80 athletes. Reflecting on past successes, he said:
"At The World Games 2022 in Birmingham, our team won 27 medals, ranking 6th among nations. We hope to maintain this position, though competition is tougher than ever."
Strengthening Hungarian-Chinese relations
Ambassador Gong Tao emphasised the significance of sports in the 75 years of diplomatic ties between Hungary and China. "Sports foster our growing cooperation. I am confident Chengdu will deliver an outstanding edition of The World Games in 2025," he stated.
Deputy Secretary of State Gábor Schmidt also praised Hungary's efforts, expressing confidence in the athletes’ success: "We are working hard to ensure our team is as large and competitive as possible. Chengdu will undoubtedly be an exceptional host."
Former Hungarian President Pál Schmitt, also a former IOC Member, congratulated the NVESZ for promoting sports outside the Olympic programme and uniting athletes for this prestigious event.
The NVESZ reaffirmed its commitment to supporting athletes through initiatives like its cooperation agreement (MoU) with the International World Games Association (IWGA). With efforts already underway, including presentations at the IWGA’s recent workshops, the NVESZ is not only focused on Chengdu 2025 but also looks forward to future successes at The World Games 2029.
The gala concluded with gifts for the athletes, underscoring NVESZ’s dedication to their journey to Chengdu and beyond.
The International World Games Association (IWGA) is a non-profit-making international sports organisation recognised and supported by the International Olympic Committee. The IWGA comprises 40 International Member Sports Federations. It administers and promotes The World Games (TWG), a multi-sport event held every four years that features around 35 sports on its programme. The next edition of TWG will be in Chengdu (CHN) from 7-17 August 2025. 5,000 participants from more than 100 countries are expected to take part in this 12th edition. The latest Games were hosted by Birmingham, Alabama (USA).
For more information, please contact the IWGA Media and Communication team: [email protected], Tel: +41 21 311 12 97, or visit our website.