Chengdu 2025 is to create a sports programme for the World Games, likely by the end of the year ©Getty Images

The sports programme for the Chengdu 2025 World Games is already being drafted according to organisers, with qualification pathways for those sports expected to start next year.

This indicates a programme could be finalised by the end of the year to allow time for qualifying to begin.

Due to the postponement of the last World Games - which took place in the American city Birmingham in 2022 instead in 2021 due to COVID-19 - there is only a three-year cycle until the next event.

International World Games Association (IWGA) chief executive Joachim Gossow has admitted challenges have arose as a result.

"We have to catch up with our International Federations," said Gossow.

"Usually we use the year after the Games to evaluate the event, and for applications to be on the programme, and for the ratification of the schedule. 

"We have to shorten this process, and we have already discussed with our staff how we can do it in an efficient way."

The IWGA will look over a draft sports programme with the Chengdu 2025 organisers ©Getty Images
The IWGA will look over a draft sports programme with the Chengdu 2025 organisers ©Getty Images

Last month, the IWGA and Chengdu 2025 Organising Committee agreed on dates for the Games, scheduled to take place from August 7 to 17 2025.

Guidelines have been set for the programme and the number of participants.

The maximum quota of athletes and officials allowed at Chengdu 2025 has been increased from 4,200 to 5,000, with 4,000 of them expected to be athletes.

Of the rest, 400 will be participants in disciplines determined in consultation with the host city, 400 from disciplines determined in consultation with the International Olympic Committee and 200 in Parasport disciplines that are not on the Paralympic Games programme.