CISM Board of Directors Awards 8th CISM Military World Summer Games 2027 to the USA in Charlotte, North Carolina

BRUSSELS (BEL) – The International Military Sports Council proudly announces that the 8th CISM Military World Summer Games 2027 will take place in Charlotte, North Carolina. This landmark decision, made by the CISM Board of Directors on Saturday, March 29th, marks the highly anticipated return of the Military World Summer Games after an eight-year hiatus since Wuhan, China hosted the Games in 2019. It also represents an historic moment, as this will be the first time the United States will be the host country, further reinforcing the country’s commitment to international military sports cooperation and diplomacy.

“We are honored to bring the CISM Military World Summer Games to the United States for the first time,” said Colonel Nilton Rolim, CISM President. “Charlotte’s outstanding sporting facilities, organizational expertise, and commitment to the values of CISM make it the ideal host for this historic event.”

A global celebration of military sportsmanship and camaraderie, the 2027 Games will gather close to 10,000 military athletes from more than 100 CISM member nations, competing at the highest level in 25 different sports. These Games serve as a unique opportunity to showcase the exceptional skills, discipline, and teamwork of military personnel from around the world, fostering unity and friendship through sports.

Charlotte was chosen as the host city due to its outstanding sports infrastructure, its experience in hosting international sporting events, and its strategic position as a leading hub for sports tourism. The city boasts world-class venues, including the University of North Carolina at Charlotte (UNC Charlotte), the Mecklenburg County Sportsplex, the U.S. National Whitewater Center, and numerous other state-of-the-art sports facilities. These venues will host a diverse array of competitions, ranging from traditional Olympic sports such as athletics, swimming, and basketball to military-specific disciplines like military pentathlon, parachuting, naval pentathlon, lifesaving, and shooting.

The CISM Military World Summer Games are one of the largest multi-sport events in the world, second only to the Olympic Games in terms of international military participation. The event promotes peace, solidarity, and cultural exchange through sport, reinforcing the CISM motto: "Friendship through Sport." By bringing together military athletes from diverse backgrounds, the Games create a unique platform for strengthening international ties and fostering understanding among armed forces worldwide.

Beyond competition, the 2027 Games will feature comprehensive cultural and educational programs aimed at enhancing collaboration and interaction among participating nations. Military athletes and officials will engage in cultural exchange activities, community outreach programs, and discussions on topics such as sports’ role in military training, leadership development, and global peacekeeping efforts.

Hosting the 8th CISM Military World Summer Games is expected to have a significant economic and social impact on Charlotte and the surrounding region. The influx of athletes, coaches, officials, media representatives, and spectators will provide a major boost to the local economy, benefiting the hospitality, tourism, and service industries. Hotels, restaurants, transportation services, and local businesses are expected to see a surge in activity during the Games, generating millions in revenue and creating numerous job opportunities. 

In addition to economic benefits, the Games will leave a lasting legacy for Charlotte’s sporting community, enhancing the city’s reputation as a premier destination for international sports events. Investments in infrastructure, sports development programs, and community engagement initiatives will ensure that the positive effects of the Games are felt long after the closing ceremony.

The successful bid for the 2027 Games was made possible through the collaboration of multiple key stakeholders, including the U.S. Department of Defense, the U.S. Performance Center, local government authorities, and prominent sports organizations. Their collective efforts underscore the importance of sports diplomacy in fostering international cooperation and building bridges between nations.

With preparations already underway, the 2027 CISM Military World Summer Games in Charlotte promise to be an unforgettable spectacle of athletic excellence, military discipline, and international camaraderie. As the world eagerly anticipates this prestigious event, Charlotte stands ready to welcome thousands of military athletes and guests from across the globe, demonstrating the unifying power of sport.

(Source:  CISM Media & Communication Department - Pictures: Courtesy of charlottesgotalot.com)