The sixth World Nomad Games promise to be not only a significant sporting event but also an extensive cultural platform with international reach. Participants can expect not only competitions but also a rich ethnographic program. Interest in the events continues to grow: representatives from various countries and peoples are reaching out to the organizers with requests to expand the list of sports and participants. This was reported by Kazybek Moldazhiyev, director of the State Agency for Physical Culture and Sports, and Nursultan Adenov, head of the International Secretariat of the World Nomad Games, at a press conference in Bishkek.
According to the organizers, more than 3,000 athletes are expected to participate. Accreditation will begin on May 1 and will last until July 1, 2026.
Kazybek Moldazhiyev noted that this is already the third time that Kyrgyzstan is hosting the World Nomad Games and observed how interest in the culture of nomadic peoples is increasing. While the first games had 771 participants, the current number exceeds 3,000 representatives from various countries and ethnicities.
Venues for the World Nomad Games:
- the hippodrome in Cholpon-Ata;
- the Gazprom sports and recreation complex in the village of Baktyu-Dolonotu;
- the ethno-complex "Rukh Ordo" in Cholpon-Ata;
- Kyrchyn (Semenov Gorge), where a traditional nomadic environment will be recreated.
Main program areas of the WNG:
- national games of the peoples of the world;
- horse racing;
- equestrian competitions;
- traditional wrestling;
- strength sports;
- intellectual games;
- traditional archery;
- hunting with birds and dogs.
“Equestrian competitions are the essence of the World Nomad Games, reflecting the lifestyle and worldview of nomadic peoples; they always generate lively interest from both spectators and international media,” emphasized Kazybek Moldazhiyev.
Additionally, the program includes an International Ethnic Festival, which will gather participants from 40 countries. Guests will be presented with ethno-hits, ethno-fashion, ethno-dances, and traditional arts. Evening concerts are also planned throughout the week.
“Participants and spectators will not only witness the competitions but also fully immerse themselves in the unique culture of nomads, getting acquainted with their traditions and way of life,” added Nursultan Adenov.
