The inclusion of air sports in The World Games is of paramount importance to FAI and the broader sporting community. Among the variety of disciplines represented, air sports play a crucial role, and in the next edition in August 2025 in Chengdu, China, Drone Racing will make a welcome return to the programme.

The World Games offers a unique platform for showcasing the excitement and technical prowess of air sports, inspiring future generations to engage with these thrilling disciplines. As air sports continue to evolve, their presence in The World Games will remain a vital component of their growth and success.

Impact on Visibility and Recognition

The World Games offers a platform to put air sports and their athletes in the spotlight for a global audience. Footage of the 2022 edition in the USA was broadcast on TV in 61 territories, generating close to 1,640 broadcast hours and reaching an audience of 268 million. Live streams and highlights from the same event accumulated over 557,000 views. Social media reach was over 335 million with 3.91 million engagements.

With such extensive media coverage and exposure to millions of viewers, the participation of air sports in The World Games can significantly enhance their visibility. This increased recognition can lead to greater interest from potential sponsors, participants, and fans, ultimately driving the growth of air sports.

Earlier this year, Drone Racing pilot Luisa Rizzo became first runner up in The World Games Athlete of the Year award with over 50,000 votes, helping to raise her own profile and that of her sport. 

Part of The World Games since 1997

Air sports have been represented at The World Games since 1997, with athletes participating in various locations across the globe. This historical involvement highlights the commitment of the FAI to promote air sports on an international level. Each edition of The World Games has provided valuable experiences for athletes, helping to shape the future of their disciplines.

Canopy piloting at The World Games 2017. Image: FAI / Marcus King

Past Successes and Experiences

The participation of air sports in previous editions of The World Games has yielded positive outcomes. Athletes have reported memorable experiences, highlighting the camaraderie and excitement of competing alongside other sports. For instance, the thrill of competing in front of large crowds and the opportunity to connect with fellow athletes from different backgrounds have been invaluable for many participants. An incredible 377,000 spectators watched the opening and closing ceremonies and competitions of The World Games 2022 across the 23 venues.

Encouraging FAI Members to Participate

The FAI encourages its Members to reaffirm their support for air sports in The World Games 2025. By fostering a collaborative environment, the FAI aims to ensure that all participating Members recognise the value of air sports and commit to their continued involvement. This united front can enhance the overall impact of air sports at The World Games, paving the way for future successes.

Importance for FAI Members

The World Games, held under the patronage of the International Olympic Committee (IOC), offers participating sports and FAI Members significant advantages. In some countries, this association leads to substantially increased funding opportunities for air sports. This includes support for judges, coaches, training, facilities, and educational programs for both elite athletes and grassroots initiatives. The ripple effect of IOC recognition and The World Games participation strengthens both the competitive and recreational levels of these sports, creating a more robust and sustainable ecosystem for air sports and related activities.

Header image: Drone Racing track. Credit: ASFC