Following an unforgettable World Games last year, the inaugural World Abilitysport Youth Games will be returning to the ‘land of smiles’, Thailand, from 1st to 7th December 2024.

The southern province of Songkhla will this time play host to the Games with a sports programme of athletics, swimming, table tennis and powerlifting with boccia’s inclusion also under discussion.

World Abilitysport President, Rudi Van den Abbeele said, ‘We are delighted to return to Thailand and once again work with the experienced and knowledgeable hosts at the Sports Association for the Disabled of Thailand.’

‘World Abilitysport is committed to providing athletes at all levels, international competition opportunities and we greatly look forward to welcoming our membership’s young talent to the Games.’

The Games logo has also been launched which includes the iconic Thai imagery of the lotus flower and the nation’s Trairanga flag.

President of the Sports Association for the Disabled of Thailand and World Abilitysport Governing Board Member, Maitree Kongruang said, ‘We are delighted to be hosting another World Abilitysport Games following the success of the World Games held late last year. We are working to provide the very best competition environment for the young athletes to perform on this international stage and we have no doubt they will have an unforgettable experience.’

The Youth Games, for IF age categories under 23 years, play a significant part in World Abilitysport’s commitment to provide stepping stones in the Paralympic Movement at all levels. These Games will give an opportunity for young athletes to make their international debut whilst more experienced athletes can kick-start their Paralympic cycle to LA 2028.

A final site visit to the Games venues will be conducted next week ahead of entries opening in mid-August.