Third Games of the Future Opens in Astana, Putin Highlights New Era of Sport and Technology

Dragon Media News Desk

The third Games of the Future international multisport tournament has opened in Astana, the capital of Kazakhstan. Russian President Vladimir Putin addressed participants and guests through a video message, describing the event as a unique combination of sport, innovation, and physical and intellectual achievement.

Putin said the tournament’s principal mission was to support the well-rounded development of people who embrace the future, remain open to innovation and confidently use cutting-edge technologies. He added that phygital sports could become an important platform for a younger generation that values knowledge and is committed to continuous self-improvement.

He expressed confidence that the number of disciplines included in the Games and the overall popularity of phygital sports would continue to grow. Phygital competitions combine digital gaming with physical performance in real sporting environments.

According to Putin, Russia has played a leading role in the phygital movement since its early development. The All-Russian Federation of Phygital Sports was established in November 2022, while the inaugural Games of the Future were held in Russia in 2024.

Putin emphasised that the Games had remained free from political confrontation, discrimination and double standards from the outset. He also noted that the geographical reach of the tournament was continuing to expand, with Astana taking over as host from Abu Dhabi, which staged the previous edition.

The Russian president praised Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev for his contribution to the development of the phygital movement and the Games of the Future. He said Tokayev’s personal commitment and active support had made it possible to hold the third edition of the tournament in Astana.

President Tokayev formally opened the competition at Barys Arena in Astana on July 29. The tournament will continue until August 9 and features more than 800 athletes from 34 countries. The presidents of Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan also attended the opening ceremony.

Tokayev said the competition, which originated in Russia, had developed into a global sporting event within a short period. He expressed confidence that the tournament would serve as a “golden bridge” of friendship, unity and cooperation by combining sport, intellectual ability and the opportunities of the digital era.

According to the organisers, the Games feature eight disciplines, including phygital football, basketball, dance, fighting and shooting. Events are being held at four major venues in Astana, with a total prize fund exceeding $4 million.

Putin wished all participants success and expressed confidence that Kazakhstan’s sporting potential, international achievements and tradition of hospitality would ensure that the tournament was organised to the highest standards.