81st CISM General Assembly and Congress - Summary News

MONACO (MON) – The Principality of Monaco welcomed the global military sport community from 1 to 8 May 2026 for the 81st CISM General Assembly and Congress, bringing together representatives from more than 80 nations for a week of strategic discussions, governance meetings, elections, ceremonies and celebrations of military sport.

The event began with several days of preparatory meetings involving the CISM Board of Directors, Sports Committees and Commissions. Discussions focused on strategic planning, financial governance, sport development, regulations, solidarity initiatives, sports science and the future direction of the organization. Particular attention was given to the implementation of the CISM Strategic Plan 2024–2028, the international sports calendar and preparations for future major events, including the 8th CISM Military World Summer Games in Charlotte, USA, in 2027.

The official opening ceremony on 4 May marked the ceremonial launch of the Assembly in the presence of senior Monaco authorities, military leaders and representatives of the international military sport community. In his address, CISM President Colonel Nilton Gomes Rolim Filho highlighted the importance of military sport as a tool for dialogue, mutual understanding and peace, reaffirming the organization’s guiding principle of “Friendship through Sport.” The opening programme also featured a Peace and Sport Conference, continental meetings and a series of networking and sporting activities that strengthened cooperation among member nations.

On 6 May, delegates gathered for the annual CISM Congress, reviewing institutional reports, financial results, strategic priorities and future development programmes. The Congress approved key planning documents, received updates on future CISM Games and officially confirmed Yerevan, Armenia, as the host city of the 82nd CISM General Assembly and Congress in 2027. Delegates also celebrated the presentation of the 2025 Friendship through Sport Trophy to Spain and received updates on the successful 5th CISM Military World Winter Games Lucerne 2025 and future editions of the Military World Games.

The General Assembly on 7 May featured important elections and statutory decisions that will shape the future leadership of CISM. Navy Captain Roberto Recchia was re-elected as CISM Secretary General, while Colonel Sven Serré was re-elected as Treasurer General. Colonel Jure Velepec of Slovenia was elected as the new Vice President Europe, while several new Board of Directors members were also elected. The Assembly additionally honored outstanding contributors to military sport through the CISM Order of Merit and celebrated sporting excellence with the 2025 CISM Athlete of the Year Awards.

The week concluded with a prestigious Closing Ceremony and Gala Dinner attended by Monaco’s highest authorities, including His Serene Highness Prince Albert II and Her Serene Highness Princess Charlene. During the ceremony, several Monaco personalities received CISM distinctions in recognition of their support for military sport, while Princess Charlene was awarded the Grand Officer distinction of the CISM Order of Merit. Prince Albert II was named an Honorary Member of CISM, highlighting the strong relationship between the organization and the Principality.

The successful organization of the 81st CISM General Assembly and Congress once again demonstrated Monaco’s commitment to international cooperation and military sport. As delegates departed the Principality, the CISM family looked ahead to Yerevan 2027, continuing its mission of promoting peace, solidarity and friendship through sport among the armed forces of the world.