IWGA president Jose Perurena hailed the Chengdu World Games as the best in history, praising its innovations, inclusivity, and high-standard organization while highlighting its lasting legacy for global sports development.
CHENGDU, Aug. 17 (Xinhua) --"I'm sure it's the best World Games in the history," Jose Perurena, president of the International World Games Association (IWGA), said in an interview with Xinhua on Sunday morning.
"After 10 days, very exciting days. My conclusion is very, very positive," Perurena said, noting that Chengdu's high-standard venues and comprehensive organization left a deep impression.
He highlighted innovations such as the first torch relay and main cauldron lighting. "There are not only these. It's the first time there are equal men and women to the competitions, which is very important," he said.
"Secondly, it's the first time we have baby room for the ladies. The mothers are very, very happy. We also had, for the first time ever, all finals broadcast live," he added.
Regarding the legacy of the World Games, Perurena cited an agreement with Chengdu Sport University. "A few days ago we signed an agreement to the studying program. This is the key because the students will have a possibility to the activities," he said. He also noted ongoing discussions with international federations to host more events in Chengdu, which now carries an "equal sign with quality and great organization."
Perurena emphasized the importance of including traditional sports such as dragon boat and wushu in the Games and welcomed the addition of more new sports in the future. "We remain open to the new addition to the program. This is the answer." ■
