CIS Games 2025: Azerbaijan Set to Host a Landmark Youth Sporting Event
The CIS Games 2025 are set to become one of the most significant sporting events in the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS), showcasing the talents of young athletes while promoting unity, cultural exchange, and regional cooperation. Scheduled to take place in Azerbaijan from September 28 to October 8, 2025, this multi-sport event will bring together thousands of athletes under the age of 23 from across the CIS region and beyond.
What Are the CIS Games?
The CIS Games are a biennial multi-sport competition established to foster camaraderie, healthy lifestyles, and athletic excellence among youth in CIS member countries. The event is designed to strengthen ties between nations while offering a platform for up-and-coming athletes to compete internationally. The CIS Games 2025 mark the third edition of the Games, following successful events in 2021 and 2023.
Azerbaijan, the host country for the 2025 edition, has been recognized for its robust sporting infrastructure and experience in hosting major international competitions. The CIS Games 2025 are expected to elevate the profile of the Games and further promote the role of sport in regional cooperation.
Multi-City Hosting Across Azerbaijan
One of the most exciting aspects of the CIS Games 2025 is its decentralized hosting model. Rather than being confined to a single city, the Games will be spread across seven cities in Azerbaijan: Ganja, Mingachevir, Gabala, Sheki, Goygol, Yevlakh, and Khankendi. This approach allows more communities to engage with the event, boosts local economies, and highlights the rich cultural heritage of various regions in the country.
Ganja, the second-largest city in Azerbaijan, has been named the official “Sports Capital of the CIS” for 2025 and will serve as the central hub for major ceremonies and competitions.
Sports Disciplines at the CIS Games 2025
The CIS Games 2025 will feature 23 sports disciplines, offering a broad platform for both Olympic and traditional sports. Athletes will compete in:
Wrestling (freestyle, Greco-Roman, and women’s)
Judo
Boxing
Sambo
Karate
Taekwondo
Rhythmic and trampoline gymnastics
Swimming
Archery
Shooting
Fencing
Table tennis
Badminton
Rowing and canoeing
Volleyball
3x3 basketball
Football (U-16)
And the traditional Azerbaijani equestrian game Chovgan
The inclusion of Chovgan, a game with deep historical roots in Azerbaijan, reflects the Games’ commitment to preserving cultural heritage alongside promoting modern sports.
Cultural and Social Objectives
The CIS Games 2025 go beyond athletic excellence—they aim to foster values such as mutual respect, teamwork, patriotism, and youth development. The Games are also an opportunity for countries to celebrate their cultural diversity, history, and traditions, while uniting through a shared love of sport.
By involving youth in international competition, the CIS Games 2025 seek to promote moral development and a sense of civic responsibility. It’s not just about winning medals—it’s about building a brighter, more cooperative future for the region.
Organization and Infrastructure
The successful execution of the CIS Games 2025 is being spearheaded by the Azerbaijani Ministry of Youth and Sports in collaboration with the Baku City Circuit Operations Company. An Organizing Committee was established by presidential decree to ensure the Games meet international standards.
Twelve modern venues are being prepared across the seven cities, with logistics, accommodation, media coordination, and volunteer programs already well underway. Azerbaijan’s past experience with events like the 2015 European Games and Formula 1 Azerbaijan Grand Prix provides a solid foundation for hosting an event of this scale.
Participation and Long-Term Impact
More than 5,500 participants—including athletes, coaches, and officials—are expected to take part in the CIS Games 2025. The Games are anticipated to have a lasting impact, not only through the improved sports infrastructure but also by strengthening Azerbaijan’s position as a regional leader in youth sports and cultural diplomacy.
By hosting the CIS Games 2025, Azerbaijan reaffirms its commitment to empowering the next generation and fostering peace and cooperation through sport.
Conclusion
The CIS Games 2025 stand as a symbol of unity, youth empowerment, and cultural celebration. As Azerbaijan prepares to welcome athletes from across the CIS, the country is ready to deliver a world-class sporting experience that honors tradition, embraces diversity, and builds bridges between nations.
From top-tier competition to cultural exchange, the CIS Games 2025