انتظرونا قريباً
In a major step forward for the Open Masters Games Abu Dhabi 2026, leaders from the International Masters Games Association (IMGA) completed an extensive site visit and review of preparations from 6–9 April, followed by an Executive Board visit from 13–16 April.
The initial visit welcomed Sergii Bubka, President of IMGA, Jens Holm, CEO of IMGA, and Samantha Hayward, Sports Director of IMGA, who toured key venues across Abu Dhabi, Al Ain, and Dubai. Their visit included:
- Al Ain: Al Ain Equestrian, Golf and Shooting Club (Golf and Shooting) and Green Mubazzarah (Orienteering)
- Dubai: Dubai Sevens Stadium (Netball and Rugby) and Dubai Police Academy (Athletics)
- Abu Dhabi: Erth and Fatima Bint Mubarak Academy (Squash), Space 42 (Muay Thai), Mohamed bin Zayed City Swimming Pool (Swimming), and Abu Dhabi Equestrian Club (Horse Jumping)
During their time in Abu Dhabi, the IMGA delegation met with the Open Masters Games organizing team for a full day of presentations. These sessions provided a detailed overview of planning progress across all major functional areas, including:
- Integrated planning
- Sports operations
- Communications
- Commercial development
- Constituent services
- Medical services
- Technology
- Venue operations
- Workforce development
Executive Board Visit
Building on this momentum, the following week saw the arrival of the IMGA Executive Board, which includes:
- Sergii Bubka, President, IMGA
- Jens Holm, CEO, IMGA
- David Eades, BBC World News Anchor and Vice President of the IMGA Board
- Kate Caithness, President of the World Curling Federation and Vice President of the IMGA Board
- Petra Sörling, President of the International Table Tennis Federation
The Board’s program featured visits to several key venues in Abu Dhabi, including:
- Zayed Sports City (Football, Tennis, Bowling)
- Mubadala Arena (Jiu Jitsu)
- ADNEC (Archery, Badminton, Judo, Karate, Table Tennis, Volleyball, Weightlifting)
The Board was also presented with a comprehensive update on the event’s planning status, including the long-term legacy strategies for the Games.
Looking Ahead to 2026
Both visits were marked by fruitful discussions and valuable feedback, reinforcing the strong collaboration between IMGA and the Open Masters Games Abu Dhabi team. The shared commitment from all stakeholders promises to deliver an exceptional experience for athletes, spectators, and the wider community in 2026.
With preparations advancing steadily, the Open Masters Games Abu Dhabi 2026 is set to celebrate athletic excellence, foster international friendship, and leave a lasting legacy for sport development in the region.
