Lausanne, Switzerland – The Riyadh 2023 World Combat Games, held in Saudi Arabia from October 20 to 30, marked the first major international multisport event hosted by the Kingdom. With over 1,500 athletes from 120+ countries competing in 16 martial arts and combat sports, the event exceeded expectations. Organized at the King Saud University Arena, it showcased Aikido, Armwrestling, Boxing, Fencing, Judo, Ju-jitsu, Karate, Kendo, Kickboxing, Muaythai, SAMBO, Savate, Sumo, Taekwondo, Wrestling, and Wushu.
The event set new standards for future hosts in terms of planning, sustainability, and inclusivity, leaving behind legacies benefiting Saudi Arabia. The successful experience will contribute to the Kingdom's preparation for hosting future sports events, including the Asian Games in 2034 and the FIFA World Cup. The Games were broadcast globally, attracting sponsors like Genesis, AlArabia, SilverSpoon, and VUZ.
Riyadh 2023 aimed at increasing sports participation in the Kingdom, inspiring Saudi youth to take up martial arts or combat sports. Free admission for children under 12 and a special outreach program with the Saudi Arabia National Olympic & Paralympic Committee and United Through Sports were part of this initiative, reaching around 5,000 children during the Games.
Team Saudi Arabia, not known as a combat sports powerhouse, exceeded expectations, finishing second in the medal standings with 12 gold, 20 silver, and 19 bronze medals. The event also provided valuable international experience for the young Saudi athletes.
The Games had a lasting impact on increasing sports participation, inspiring Saudi youth to take up martial arts or combat sports. The outreach program reached around 5,000 children during the Games, introducing them to sports like Judo, Muaythai, and Boxing and encouraging active and healthy lifestyles.
Beyond the tangible impact, Riyadh 2023 served as a learning experience for the young and ambitious workforce and volunteers in areas like event management, security, catering, and tourism. This legacy will contribute to the Kingdom's future sports projects and industries.
The event also tested the operational readiness of Olympic Movement stakeholders like Swiss Timing for the upcoming Olympic Games Paris 2024. Riyadh 2023 allowed them to test new technologies and ensure Olympic-level services for athletes participating.
The Riyadh 2023 World Combat Games introduced groundbreaking innovations, including a commitment to inclusivity and sustainability. Para and Special athletes competed alongside able-bodied athletes on the same national teams, with unified medals. Six sports featured Para and Special competitions, involving 60 athletes with physical, intellectual, or visual impairments representing 32 countries.
Another unique aspect was hosting all 16 sports at the same venue, reducing the carbon footprint and enhancing efficiency for athletes, officials, and spectators. Riyadh 2023 has set a new path for future event organizers worldwide, leaving behind a powerful and long-lasting legacy.
