South Africa’s growing presence in the Games of the Future is putting the country on the global phygital sports map, with the possibility of hosting a future edition now on the radar.
South Africa’s participation across the core disciplines has placed the country firmly on the international radar, with Phygital International CEO Daniel Merkley saying South Africa has the capability to one day host the Games of the Future.
The Games of the Future 2026 in Astana has offered more than world-class competition. It has provided a peek into a new sporting environment where technology, gaming and traditional physical competition increasingly exist side by side, and Africa is beginning to establish its position within it.
That message emerged during an international media press conference featuring senior figures involved in the international movement and the delivery of this year’s event. Among the executives were Daniel Merkley, Chief Executive Officer of Phygital International; John Hewitt, International Marketing & Communications Director at Phygital International; and Arnur Alsherov, Vice President of JSC Kazsportinvest.
Journalists from different parts of the world explored the future of the sport, international expansion, technology, youth participation, athlete development and the requirements for countries hoping to host future editions.
