The 12th edition of The World Games is set to take place from August 7 to 17, 2025, in Chengdu, China. This prestigious multi-sport event, organized by the International World Games Association (IWGA), will feature drone racing as a key discipline, highlighting the sport’s growing global prominence.
Event Overview
Dates: August 7–17, 2025
Location: Chengdu, China
Venue: Secondary stadium at Dong’an Lake Sports Park, Longquanyi District
Drone Racing Competition Details
- Format: The competition will feature a mixed-gender event with a single classification, allowing both men and women to compete together. A total of 32 athletes will qualify, with an aim to include 8 to 10 women among them.
- Qualification Process: Athletes will qualify based on their rankings in the FAI World Drone Racing Championships and the FAI Drone Racing World Cup. The qualification period ends on December 31, 2024, with ranking lists published by February 1, 2025. Qualified pilots must confirm their participation by April 30, 2025.
- Rules: The competition will adhere to the F9U (Drone Racing) class rules as stated in the FAI Sporting Code Section 4 – Aeromodelling.
Betting on Drone Racing at The World Games 2025
As drone racing gains prominence, several sportsbooks are expected to offer betting markets for The World Games 2025. It is still very early, though we expect these bookmakers to open their betting markets for World Games Drone Racing:
- In the UK, bookmakers like Paddy Power, Bet365, and William Hill have previously provided odds on drone racing events.
- In the US, we expect DraftKings to lead the crowd as they are the main driver of the Drone Racing League and other drone racing events.
As the event approaches, navigate to the esports or motorsports sections of these sportsbooks to find listings for drone racing at The World Games 2025.
Where to Watch Drone Racing at The World Games 2025
To catch all the action live:
Social Media: Follow the official social media channels of The World Games and the Fédération Aéronautique Internationale (FAI) for live updates, highlights, and streaming links.
Official Broadcasts: The International World Games Association (IWGA) typically partners with various broadcasters to air events. Check the official World Games website for a list of broadcasting partners as the event date approaches.
Online Streaming: Events are often streamed live on platforms like Olympics.com, which previously streamed The World Games 2022.
Significance of Inclusion in The World Games
Incorporating drone racing into The World Games underscores the sport’s rapid evolution and its appeal to a diverse, global audience. This inclusion provides a platform for top pilots to showcase their skills on an international stage, promoting the sport’s growth and recognition.
About The World Games
The World Games is a quadrennial multi-sport event that features disciplines not included in the Olympic Games. It serves as a platform for sports to gain international exposure and recognition. The 2025 edition in Chengdu will mark the third time an Asian city has hosted the event since its inception in 1981.
Looking Ahead
As drone racing prepares to take center stage at The World Games 2025, enthusiasts and athletes alike anticipate a thrilling competition that will further elevate the sport’s status worldwide. The event promises to be a milestone in the history of drone racing, offering unparalleled excitement and showcasing the pinnacle of aerial athleticism.
