Phygital International Opens Host City Applications for Games of the Future 2028-2030

Phygital International Opens Applications for Hosts

Phygital International (PI), a prominent global promoter of phygital sports, has officially launched the host city application process for the upcoming Games of the Future (GOTF) scheduled for 2028, 2029, and 2030. As the foremost event combining physical and digital sporting competitions, these games aim to redefine engagement in global sports and promote a healthier lifestyle among the digital generation.

The Concept of Phygital Sports

The Games of the Future represent an innovative platform that strives to merge immersive digital gameplay with real-world competition. The initiative is designed to motivate younger audiences, encouraging them to transition from screen time to active participation in sports. This unique aspect of phygital sports not only bridges the gap between virtual and traditional athletics but also emphasizes the importance of physical activity in a digitally-centric world.

The esteemed event acts as a strategic tool for host cities by boosting grassroots and elite sports ecosystems, driving physical activity among youth, and promoting public health outcomes. By integrating cutting-edge technology, digital platforms, and next-gen entertainment formats, host cities can position themselves as leaders at the intersection of sport, technology, and youth culture.

How Cities Can Apply

Cities and organizations interested in becoming host locations are invited to enter an international competition, which starts with the submission of a letter of intent due by July 1, 2026. To be eligible, potential host cities must secure support from a relevant governmental authority or official organization. Further details regarding the specific requirements and timeline will be provided as the application process advances.

The launch of this application procedure follows the recent success of the Games of the Future 2025, which took place in Abu Dhabi, UAE. That event attracted over 40,000 attendees and garnered significant global exposure, with an independent report from IPSOS highlighting 461 million views, including 137 million unique viewers, coupled with 59 million hours of watch time across various platforms.

This level of engagement places the Games of the Future on par with some of the most established international competitions and showcases the dynamic acceleration of the phygital movement, especially among the youth demographic, with 90% of viewers aged between 18 and 34.

Upcoming Events

The 2026 edition of the Games of the Future is set to take place in Astana, Kazakhstan, from July 29 to August 9. The ongoing selection process for the 2027 host city has already sparked interest, with applications coming from countries such as Brazil, Serbia, and Uzbekistan. The opening of the 2028-2030 host city applications further underscores the rapid global expansion of phygital sports.

John Hewitt, PI's International Marketing and Communications Director, stated, “Hosting the Games of the Future is more than just a global event; it serves as a platform to drive youth engagement, accelerate digital transformation, and enhance the global visibility of host cities through sport and technology.”

He emphasized the need for ambitious cities that are willing to partner in this vision and have the infrastructure necessary to host a Games edition reflective of local culture while contributing to the evolution of sport.

Each event will feature top-level athletes competing in various phygital disciplines, blending physical sports with an innovative gaming format. Spectator zones across the host cities, showcases of innovation, and collective activities will extend the experience beyond conventional sites, providing tangible benefits in areas such as tourism, investment, and youth engagement.

Conclusion

As Stéphane Timpano, CEO of ASPIRE and local organizing committee member for the Abu Dhabi 2025 Games, remarked, “The organization of the Games of the Future exemplifies that sports is no longer just about physical competition; it has become a convergence of digital capabilities and human performance.” With over 850 competitors from more than 60 countries participating, the event has ignited youth interest in high-growth sectors like video gaming, AI, and robotics, creating a global platform for industrial collaboration.

Through a rigorous selection process, submissions will be evaluated based on comprehensive criteria including infrastructure preparedness, implementation capability, digital innovation, future planning, and collective engagement, ensuring a transparent, merit-based assessment by an independent committee of experts convened by Phygital International.

For more information about hosting the Games of the Future starting in 2028, please visit phygitalinternational.com or contact [email protected]