Lausanne, Switzerland – 25 August 2025 — The International World Games Association (IWGA) is pleased to announce the seven athletes who have been elected to serve on the IWGA Athletes Committee for the 2025–2029 term.
Following the voting period held during The World Games 2025 in Chengdu, China, from 3–16 August, accredited athletes from across the Games cast their votes online to select their representatives.
This election reinforces the IWGA’s ongoing commitment to athlete inclusion and participation in the governance of The World Games.
The seven elected members of the Athletes Committee are:
- Xaioxaio (Sunny) Lai (CHN) – Wushu
- Sandra Sánchez (ESP) – Karate
- Petra Senánszky (HUN) – Underwater Sports
- Catherine Phillips (AUS) – Flying Disc
- Andrea Busa (HUN) – Kickboxing
- Yves Martial Tadissi (HUN) – Karate
- Max Poschart (GER) – Underwater Sports
These athletes were chosen from a pool of 20 candidates representing a wide range of sports and countries, all nominated by their respective International Federations. Their election ensures a diverse and experienced Committee that can effectively represent athlete interests across the IWGA Family.
In line with the IWGA Constitution, up to two additional members may be appointed by the IWGA President by October 2025 to ensure balanced representation in terms of gender, sport, and geographical diversity.
Once the final composition of the Athlete Committee is confirmed, the first meeting of the new Athletes Committee will be held, during which the members will elect their Chair. The elected Chair will also serve as a member of the IWGA Executive Committee for the duration of the term, from 2025 to 2029.
José Perurena, IWGA President and Chair of the Electoral Committee, commented on the outcome:
“I extend my congratulations to the seven elected athletes and thank all the candidates who stood for election. The strong engagement of athletes during the voting period shows how important this Committee is for the future of The World Games. We look forward to working closely with the newly elected members.”
Jan Fransoo and John Liljelund, members of both the IWGA Executive Committee and the Electoral Committee, added:
“This election has once again underlined the importance of athlete input in shaping the direction of our organisation. The Athletes Committee serves as a vital bridge between the IWGA and the competitors who bring the Games to life. We’re excited to collaborate with this new group over the coming years.”
The IWGA thanks all 20 candidates for their dedication and willingness to serve, and applauds all participating athletes who exercised their right to vote.