Encouraging registration figures for the 5th CISM Military World Winter Games 2025 in Lucerne

LUCERNE (SUI) - Preparations for the 5th CISM Military World Winter Games, which will be held in Lucerne from March 23 30, 2025, are in full swing and the current registration figures promise to be an exciting international sporting event. With 46 nations registered so far and a total of 1,309 athletes and 134 para-athletes taking part, the Games are a significant milestone in the global military sports calendar.

The high number of registrations for the 5th CISM Military World Winter Games is proof of Switzerland's attractiveness and international recognition as a host country. Over 30 CISM World Championships have already been successfully held in Switzerland, which shows that Switzerland has proven organizational expertise and can guarantee high-quality competitions. The participation of 46 nations and over 1,300 athletes and para-athletes also illustrates the confidence in the safety and excellent framework conditions that Switzerland offers for such events.

As a result of the inclusion of the two sports of cross-country running and sport climbing in the competition program, nations without a winter sports tradition have also registered for the Games. Participants from the continents of America, Africa, Europe and Asia were persuaded to take part. Athletes from Russia and Belarus will not be taking part in the Games.

Sports and locations

The Military World Winter Games take place at renowned venues in Central Switzerland with Lucerne as the host city and include a variety of winter sports, including:

• Alpine skiing and snowboarding as well as parachute skiing (a sport composed of parachute target jumping and giant slalom): Engelberg
• Biathlon, cross-country skiing, ski orienteering and patrol running: Goms
• Ski mountaineering: Andermatt
• Sport climbing: Wädenswil
• Cross-country running: Emmen

Focus on sustainability

Sustainability is a central concern of the 2025 Military World Winter Games. Extensive measures have been taken to minimize the environmental impact of the Games. In this context, the organizing committee is planning net-zero compensation for the CO2 emissions generated during the Military Wolrd Winter Games. At least 500 of the 1,700 forecast tons of CO2 equivalent (tCO2e) will be sequestered ahead of schedule from 2024. The topic of sustainability also includes the promotion of environmentally friendly means of transport, the reduction of waste through recycling and composting programs and the involvement of regional suppliers.

Inclusion of para-sport competitions

The participation of servicewomen and men with disabilities in para-sport competitions deserves special mention. The integration and promotion of these athletes is a central component of the Games and underlines the commitment to inclusion and equality in sport. The CISM is actively committed to ensuring that these athletes have equal opportunities to demonstrate their abilities and promotes programs that enable their participation in sporting events such as the Military World Winter Games.

(Source: Swiss Delegation to CISM)