living reading time: 7 min publication date: 10.06.2023

UNITED WORLD GAMES 2023: A CELEBRATION OF SPORT AND DIVERSITY

© UWG | Ilka Thaler
Participants from different nations at the opening of the United World Games

Thousands of young athletes from all over the world travel to Carinthia every year to experience a celebration of sport, community, and friendship at the United World Games. The United World Games is the largest youth sports event in Europe that follows the motto, "One World - A Thousand Friends". 

From June 22nd to 25th, 2023, the United World Games will take place for the 17th time under the patronage of UNESCO.

 

AN INTERNATIONAL MULTISPORT EVENT INVITES INTERCULTURAL EXCHANGE

In 2005, the United World Games were held for the first time in Klagenfurt am Wörthersee. The goal was to create a youth sports event with an Olympic atmosphere. Around 500 young people from 12 nations took part in the Games at that time and since then the popular event has grown steadily. The United World Games include a wide range of sports competitions that challenge the athletic skills and abilities of the participants. From team sports such as ice hockey and basketball to individual sports such as golf, there are numerous opportunities for the young teams and athletes to do their best and showcase their skills. 

In addition to the numerous competitions in the various disciplines, the international event is also characterized by cultural exchange, respect, and fair play. With the participation of teams from over 30 countries, the United World Games offer a unique platform for young athletes to compete, make new friends, and get to know different cultures.

© UWG | Florian Pessentheiner
Young acrobat with audience in the background at the United World Games
© UWG | Ilka Thaler
Enthusiastic spectators at the United World Games
© UWG | Florian Pessentheiner
 BMX Stunt

THE UNITED WORLD GAMES 2023

During the four-day event at the end of June, young people from all over the world will compete in twelve different sports. These range from tennis and hockey to floorball and ultimate frisbee and will be held at 30 different locations. In addition to the center of the United World Games - the 28 Black Arena (the Wörthersee Stadium) in Klagenfurt, the competitions will also take place in Feldkirchen, Ferlach and Villach. In Villach, the Ballspielhalle Lind and the Sporthalle St. Martin will serve as venues for the floorball discipline.

An extensive supporting program rounds off the unique atmosphere of the games. The teams can expect side events such as an Oktoberfest, a Players Party, a Gala Dinner, a Farewell BBQ and not to forget the big Opening Ceremony. The Opening Ceremony of the United World Games, which can be attended not only by participants but also by all other interested parties, is a spectacular event that marks the official start of the Games. With impressive light shows, captivating music, and rousing dance performances, it offers the athletes the opportunity to present themselves in the spotlight and represent the pride of their nations. A multilingual oath of friendship, framed by a fascinating torchlight march and a magnificent fireworks display crown the end of the opening show. 

The United World Games are a unique opportunity to celebrate the spirit of sport and the diversity of cultures. Those who want to follow the games live can follow along via the livestream.