Postponement of the 5th CISM Military World Cadet Games in Kazakhstan

BRUSSELS (BEL) – The International Military Sports Council (CISM) informs its member nations that the 5th CISM Military World Cadet Games, initially scheduled to take place in Astana, Kazakhstan, in July 2026, will be postponed and will therefore not be included in the CISM Sports Calendar for the year 2026.

The Military World Cadet Games represent a major event in the CISM calendar, dedicated to young military athletes and aimed at promoting the core values of education, friendship and peace through sport. Since their creation, the Cadet Games have provided an important platform for youth development, cultural exchange and international understanding among future members of the armed forces.

Following the decision of the CISM Board of Directors to award the organization of the 5th edition of the Games to Kazakhstan, preparations had been initiated in close cooperation with the host nation. However, due to unavoidable circumstances, the leadership of the Ministry of Defence of the Republic of Kazakhstan formally requested that the event be postponed.

In light of this request, CISM has decided that the Games will not take place in 2026. The possibility of rescheduling the 5th CISM Military World Cadet Games to a later year, notably 2028, will be examined by the CISM Board of Directors during its next meeting. Any future decision regarding the organization and timing of the event will be communicated officially to all CISM member nations once confirmed.

CISM underlines its continued commitment to the development of military sport among young athletes and to strengthening international cooperation through sporting activities. The organization remains fully dedicated to ensuring that future editions of the Military World Cadet Games continue to offer a high-quality sporting and educational experience in line with CISM standards.

Member nations and stakeholders are invited to follow CISM’s official communication channels for updates regarding future editions of the Military World Cadet Games and other major CISM events. Additional information will be shared in due course.

(Source: CISM Media & Communication Department)