Riyadh Gears Up to Host the World Combat Games 2023

• Saudi Arabia continues to garner attention amongst global governing parties as a premier host destination for major events.

• An impressive line-up of major, multi-sport functions are confirmed for the Kingdom’s capital, including the World Combat Games, the Saudi Games and the Asian Games.

• This year’s World Combat Games will be the most memorable to date, providing a combination of elite sport and captivating family entertainment.

RIYADH, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia | 5 October 2023: The countdown until the grand inauguration of the 2023 Riyadh World Combat Games has begun, and the palpable anticipation within the Kingdom continues to grow. According to WCG Chief Executive Officer, Mr Ian Reid: “With its exceptional facilities, skilled workforce and friendly populace, the vibrant city of Riyadh stands as the ultimate host-destination for the World Combat Games.”

As Riyadh continues its countdown towards excellence, Mr Reid guides us through the World Combat Game’s meticulous preparations, commencing on October 20th.

Mr Reid’s commentary provides insight into the dedication, vision, and meticulous planning shaping the Riyadh 2023 World Combat Games into a global spectacle: “Preparations have been going very well. We are confident in our team and suppliers, especially after the incredible success of last year’s Saudi Games.”

Proactive efforts to establish Saudi Arabia as a focal event hub have not gone unnoticed. According to Mr Reid, “Governing bodies across the globe are starting to look to Saudi Arabia as a ‘go to’ destination.” 

Well-established sports tournaments, cultural festivals and business conferences continue to be added to the country’s line-up, and its growing roster speaks for itself. “Three significant multi-sport events, including the World Combat Games, the Saudi Games and the Asian Games are set to take centre stage in Saudi Arabia,” confirms Mr Reid.

Furthermore, the World Combat Games seamlessly blends with the Saudi Vision 2030; a transformative roadmap aimed at diversifying the nation’s economy and enhancing its global presence. Thus, the Kingdom’s rationale for hosting events such as the WCG is twofold; to create an unforgettable athlete, spectator and business experience while simultaneously building a culture of fitness and well-being amongst its citizens.

The World Combat Games 2023 is a testament to Saudi Arabia’s commitment to excellence and inclusivity in sports. With disciplines ranging from Aikido to Fencing, the event promises to be a thrilling showcase of athleticism, strategy, and international camaraderie. Moreover, Mr Reid believes that the World Combat Games is one of the world’s most inclusive multi-sport events: “It is a truly integrated competition, with our home-based athletes competing amongst individuals from over 80 countries in male, female and para-sport categories across 16 thrilling combat divisions.”

Q&A

Ian Reid

Chief Operating Officer, World Combat Games

• Hosting an event of this magnitude requires extensive logistical planning. How has the organising committee collaborated with relevant parties to ensure a smooth execution? How have sustainability measures been incorporated to minimise its ecological impact?

An event of this scale requires a significant team effort across our supply chain and delivery agencies. We have built a capable Organising Committee that works closely with an experienced local team and international expertise. Our team communicates regularly with other delivery agencies, and we have a detailed readiness programme to ensure all partners understand their roles and responsibilities well in advance of the event. We plan to deliver a sustainable World Combat Games by minimising athlete transport and logistics through a single competition venue while also focusing on a low-plastic solution to delivery.

• What does it mean for the country to host such an important international sporting event? Can you provide insight into the envisioned objectives and aspirations behind organizing this event?

Saudi Arabia has a significant pipeline of major multi-sport events including the World Combat Games, the Saudi Games and the Asian Games. The World Combat Games will be the first major international multi-sport event to be held in the Kingdom. It will demonstrate our delivery capabilities, elevate the Kingdom’s standing within the international combat sports community and support Vision 2030.

• What sets this edition of the WCG apart from previous editions hosted in other countries?

It’s been over ten years since the last World Combat Games, and we believe this edition will breathe new life into the event. You can expect top-level sports from renowned international athletes alongside a host of entertainment and education, including forums, pavilions and cultural festivals. In providing a combination of elite sport and entertainment for the whole family, we are confident that this will be the best World Combat Games yet.

• The World Combat Games emphasises sportsmanship and fair play. How does the organising committee plan to instil these values throughout the tournament?

Respect and fair play are part of combat sports culture, and the World Combat Games will provide a platform to demonstrate these values. Athletes will also engage with spectators in the event’s Fan Zones and educate attendees on their respective sport’s cultural significance and underlying values.

• Could you share insights into the innovative initiatives and entertainment programs planned to be offered alongside the competitions to make the WCG a complete experience?

We don’t want to give too much away, but expect high-profile entertainment combat sports-related tryouts, exhibitions, sponsor activations and further activities for the entire family.

• The tournament’s success largely relies on the efforts of its volunteers. How is the committee recruiting and training volunteers to support various aspects of the event?

Our committed volunteers will support the athletes, fans and media in our various stadiums. They look forward to welcoming our guests and providing an unforgettable Saudi Arabian experience.

• What impact do you anticipate the World Combat Games will have on the growth and promotion of martial arts and combat sports in Saudi Arabia?

We will showcase the world’s best athletes across various combat sports. While some of these sports already have high levels of grassroots participation, others will be relatively new to the country. We have high hopes that this event will inspire young people across Saudi Arabia to consider learning something new. Our team is also working closely with national and international sports federations to ensure we can capitalise on the renewed interest.

• How are you promoting gender equality and inclusivity in the WCG, both in terms of participation and representation?

The World Combat Games is one of the world’s most inclusive multi-sport events. There will be 16 culturally diverse disciplines to watch, with male, female and para-sport athletes competing in a single championships format.

• Do you envision the third iteration of the WCG leaving a legacy of martial arts and combat sports in Saudi Arabia?

We would love for Saudi Arabia to be recognised internationally as a world-class venue for hosting elite combat sports championships. Most importantly, we hope that the event will inspire younger generations to try a combat sport.

• From your perspective, how has Saudi Arabia’s investments in sports infrastructure contributed to the successful organisation of the WCG?

The King Saud University is an exceptional venue, and its infrastructure will allow all 16 sports to be hosted indoors. The country’s continued investment in its sporting infrastructure is why so many governing bodies and international federations are turning to the Kingdom to host their events. They recognise the leading role that Saudi Arabia is taking to ensure a memorable experience for all its visitors. The infrastructure is also critical for sports to grow at the community level.

• As the CEO of the WCG, how would you describe Saudi Arabia’s unique appeal as a host country for this international event?

Access to first-rate facilities, a welcoming and warm population, a skilled event workforce and the excitement within our modern host city makes for the perfect World Combat Games destination. SportAccord, the event owner, is also very pleased with the preparations. I know our visitors will have an absolutely fantastic experience. I know other Governing bodies across the world are starting to look to Saudi Arabia as the ‘go to’ destination for their major events.

• Saudi Arabia has a rich cultural heritage. How is local culture being integrated into the WCG to provide a unique experience for the delegations and visitors?

An exhilarating Opening Ceremony coupled with a variety of entertainment offerings within the Fan Zone will showcase the rich cultural legacy of Saudi Arabia. The exact content is confidential at this stage, but showcasing the Kingdom’s extraordinary heritage will be the priority. Moreover, we certainly hope they will enjoy the many attractions within Riyadh. It is a stunning city with so much to do and see.

• As the world looks forward to the 3rd edition of the WCG in Saudi Arabia, what message do you have for the global audience, fans and participants, inviting them to experience Saudi Arabia and specifically Riyadh?

We look forward to welcoming all our guests to what will surely be a captivating experience filled with exceptional athleticism, pulsing excitement, cultural diversity, utmost excellence and unforgettable memories.

Information for Editors:

About Riyadh 2023 World Combat Games:

The Riyadh 2023 World Combat Games “WCG” is set to make its debut appearance in the Middle East from October 20 to 30 at the King Saud University Arena Complex. The event will bring together more than 2,500 athletes and officials from 80+ countries.

Spanning an intense 11 days of competition, the Riyadh 2023 WCG will feature 16 combat games, including Aikido, Armwrestling, Boxing, Fencing, Judo, Ju Jitsu, Karate, Kendo, Kickboxing, Muaythai, Sambo, Savate, Sumo, Taekwondo, Wrestling and Wushu.

After a decade-long hiatus, the championship is set to take centre stage within the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The tournament previously took place in Beijing, China in 2010, followed by its second edition in St. Petersburg, Russia in 2013.