From July 29 to August 9, Astana will host the international multisport tournament “Games of the Future 2026” for the first time. The innovative event combines esports, traditional sports, and cutting-edge technologies, creating a new competition format.
The announcement was made by Serik Zharasbayev, Vice Minister of Tourism and Sports of Kazakhstan, during a press briefing at the Central Communications Service.
According to the Vice Minister, this year’s tournament introduces a club-based format, marking a significant departure from traditional international competitions. Instead of national teams, the event will feature international clubs, allowing athletes from different countries to compete together on the same team.
One of the tournament’s defining features is its phygital format, which blends digital and physical sports. Competitors will first face each other in a virtual environment before continuing the contest on a real sports arena, combining gaming skills with athletic performance.
The Games of the Future 2026 will feature competitions in eight disciplines, showcasing the growing integration of technology and sport.
To date, around 400 athletes from 24 countries have already arrived in Kazakhstan to participate in the tournament, highlighting the event’s international significance.
The tournament is expected to strengthen Kazakhstan’s position as a host of major international sporting events while promoting innovation, digital technologies, and the development of new sports formats.