The candidacy led by Anna Arzhanova for the presidency of the International World Games Association –IWGA– is presented as one of the strongest proposals ahead of the organisation’s upcoming elections. Alongside her, Jan Fransoo is running for Vice-President and John Liljelund for Treasurer, forming a team with extensive experience in international sports governance.

The three candidates have worked over recent months on a joint strategy aimed at ensuring the continued development of The World Games, while strengthening its structure and global projection. Their proposal seeks to continue and consolidate the process started during the previous term in the IWGA Executive Committee -ExCo-. With the support of the outgoing Vice-President, Tom Dielen, they have designed a programme focused on professionalisation, sustainability and increasing value for member federations.

Experience and vision

Anna Arzhanova’s trajectory at the helm of CMAS has been one of the pillars of this candidacy. Her knowledge of the international ecosystem and her direct involvement in the evolution of The World Games reinforce her profile as a presidential candidate. Alongside her, Jan Fransoo brings his experience as Honorary Life President of the IKF, while John Liljelund adds his operational expertise from the IFF.

The team promotes a shared vision: to build more professional, visible and sustainable World Games. Their proposal focuses on optimising resources, improving coordination with federations and ensuring that every decision has a direct impact on the development of the event and its athletes.

Organisational reform and greater value for federations

One of the central pillars of the programme is the modernisation of the IWGA structure. The candidacy proposes a more efficient organisation, with clearly defined roles and responsibilities, as well as greater accountability in executive management. In addition, they aim to strengthen cooperation mechanisms with international federations, placing them at the centre of decision-making.

The objective is clear: to increase the value received by member federations, both in terms of visibility and financial and operational support. In this regard, the programme includes reforms to participation, accreditation and resource distribution models, adapting them to the real needs of each sport.

Boosting the commercial model

The candidacy led by Anna Arzhanova also advocates for a deep transformation in the fields of marketing and media. Among the proposals is the creation of a more ambitious commercial programme, aimed at increasing revenues and strengthening the global presence of The World Games.

They also propose a review of the broadcasting model, prioritising international television distribution over current in-house channels. This strategy aims to expand the event’s reach and enhance its appeal for sponsors and audiences.

Evolution of the format and support for athletes

Another key aspect of the project is the evolution of the competition format. The team proposes organising sports into clusters, with the aim of simplifying management for Local Organising Committees and improving the overall event experience.

At the same time, a specific support programme for top-level athletes who do not receive financial backing from their national committees is included, reinforcing the commitment to equal opportunities and inclusiveness.

The joint candidacy thus presents a roadmap based on modernisation, efficiency and collaboration, with the aim of consolidating the growth of The World Games and responding to the current challenges of the international sports movement.