The VI World Nomad Games promise to be not only a significant sporting event but also an important international cultural platform. In addition to competitions, the program includes various ethnographic activities. Interest in the Games from other countries is growing—many nations and ethnic groups are reaching out to the organizers with requests to add new disciplines and participants. This was shared at a press conference in Bishkek by the director of the State Agency for Physical Culture and Sports, Kazybek Moldazhiyev, and the head of the International Secretariat of the World Nomad Games, Nursultan Adenov.
The organizers expect the event to gather more than 3,000 participants. Accreditation will take place from May 1 to July 1, 2026.
Kazybek Moldazhiyev emphasized that this is already the third time the country is hosting the World Nomad Games and noted the growing interest in the culture of nomadic peoples: “The first Games had only 771 participants, and now we expect more than 3,000 representatives from various countries and ethnic groups.”
The Games will cover four picturesque locations:
- the racetrack in Cholpon-Ata;
- the Gazprom sports and wellness complex in the village of Baktyu-Dolonotu;
- the ethnocomplex "Rukh Ordo" in Cholpon-Ata;
- Kyrchyn in the Semenov Gorge, where a traditional nomadic atmosphere will be recreated.
The program includes eight key areas:
- national games of the peoples of the world;
- horse racing;
- horse competitions;
- national wrestling styles;
- traditional strength sports;
- intellectual games;
- traditional archery;
- national hunting games with birds and dogs.
“Equestrian sports are the heart of the World Nomad Games; they reflect the lifestyle and worldview of nomadic peoples and invariably attract the attention of spectators and international media,” added Kazybek Moldazhiyev.
Special attention in the program will be given to the International Ethnic Festival, which will feature representatives from 40 countries. Guests will be offered ethnic hits, ethnic fashion, ethnic dances, and traditional arts. Evening concerts are also planned throughout the week.
Nursultan Adenov noted that participants and guests will not only be able to observe the competitions but also immerse themselves in the unique atmosphere of nomads, learning about their traditions, values, and way of life.
