President of Russia Vladimir Putin: Mr President,
Tournament participants, guests, and heads of delegations,
Ladies and gentlemen, friends,
Welcome to the opening ceremony of the 3rd Games of the Future International Multisport Tournament.
This unique sport event fuses sport and innovation, physical and intellectual achievement. Their primary mission is to foster the well-rounded development of people who embrace the future, are open to innovation, and confidently harness cutting-edge technologies – those who value knowledge and are committed to continuous self-improvement.
I am confident that, over time, the number of disciplines included in the Games programme – and in phygital sports as a whole – will continue to grow, along with their popularity.
Russia is one of the world’s leading sporting nations, the birthplace of great athletes, records, and victories. We are proud that our country stood at the forefront of the phygital movement and, of course, are creating every possible condition for the further development of this sport.
As you know, the All-Russian Federation of Phygital Sports was established back in November 2022. Then, in February and March 2024, we hosted the inaugural Games of the Future, which attracted tremendous interest from both athletes and spectators around the world.
I would like to emphasise that from the very outset these Games have remained free from political confrontation, discrimination in any form, and double standards.
It is also important that the geography of the Games continues to expand. This year, the baton has passed from last year’s host, Abu Dhabi, to Astana – a vibrant, modern, and dynamically developing city.
I would like to pay special tribute to President of Kazakhstan Kassym-Jomart Tokayev’s significant contribution to the development of the phygital movement and the Games of the Future. It is thanks to his personal commitment and active support that the third edition of the Games is taking place in Astana.
Kazakhstan boasts tremendous sporting potential, and its athletes have rightfully earned numerous honours at prestigious international competitions. We are very familiar with the traditions of generosity and hospitality that our Kazakh friends are known for. I am therefore confident that the Games will be organised to the highest standards and will delight both competitors and spectators with thrilling, hard-fought contests.
I wish all the participants every success and all the guests an unforgettable experience.
Godspeed!