Thailand has positioned itself as a potential host for the upcoming Games of the Future (GOTF) 2027, an innovative tournament blending traditional athletics with digital gaming.
On February 25, 2568 B.E. (2025), Phygital International (PI), the sole rights holder and organizer of the GOTF, announced the shortlisted countries for the 2027 event. Along with Thailand, the other contenders include Brazil, Serbia, South Africa, and Uzbekistan. This international competition has already captured significant attention, paving the way for countries to emerge as leaders within the phygital sports movement.
CEO of Phygital International, Nis Hatt, expressed enthusiasm about the interest shown globally, stating, "We express our gratitude to all countries who submitted proposals to host the Games of the Future 2027 and are pleased to announce Brazil, Serbia, South Africa, and Uzbekistan as the selected shortlisted countries." His words reflect the growing awareness and passion for phygital sports worldwide.
The GOTF is projected to be the premier international tournament where athletes, alongside eSports competitors, come together to showcase varied sports formats and skills. This year's GOTF will be held initially in the United Arab Emirates, followed by Kazakhstan for 2026.
The decision about which country will host the 2027 Games will be finalized and announced during the summer of 2025, following comprehensive evaluations and careful consideration of each proposal. This assessment involves analyzing the infrastructure, support, and readiness of each country, with all shortlisted nations expressing their commitment to fostering the innovative spirit of the phygital sports revolution.
The Games of the Future not only merging physical and digital sports but also represent the future of athletic competitions, enticing enthusiasts and fostering community participation. The increased buzz surrounding this years' upcoming events indicates the global shift toward more integrated, diverse sporting experiences prioritizing both physical prowess and digital skillsets.
The format of the GOTF emphasizes community engagement within the broader eSports and traditional sports ecosystem, highlighting the growing overlap and interest between these two often-disparate worlds. This reflects the entertainment evolution, where new formats and venues require adaptability from both athletes and fans alike.
Thailand, along with other shortlisted countries, has the opportunity to champion innovative sporting experiences, engaging with local communities and building on the momentum of international sporting events. The ambition for the GOTF is rooted firmly within the framework of promoting ‘phygital’ sports, making this not just about competition but collaboration and creativity as well.
The soon-to-be-evaluated host nation will be undertaken by Phygital International's team, assuring fairness and transparent decision-making processes. Hosting the GOTF is poised to provide transformative experiences for both citizens and athletes alike.
With the future of sports continuously approaching, innovations such as phygital sports become pivotal for growth and engagement, eleving the athletic experience to unprecedented levels. Thailand's aspirations to host the 2027 Games could place it at the forefront of this exciting evolution.