Kyrgyzstan is preparing to host the VI World Nomad Games in 2026

In 2026, Kyrgyzstan will host the VI World Nomad Games. The opening and closing ceremonies will be held in Bishkek at the new stadium, while the competitions themselves will take place in the Issyk-Kul region — on the lake shore and in the Kyrchyn Gorge. This was announced by Minister of Culture Mirbek Mambetaliev at a press conference.

“The Ministry of Culture is responsible for the cultural part of the event. As part of the Games, an ethno-city will be built — a nomadic universe where guests will be treated to festivals of ethno-dances, ethno-hits, and ethno-moto. We will provide additional information about other locations later,” Mambetaliev said.

The State Agency for Physical Culture and Sports is responsible for the sporting part of the Games. According to its director, Aibek Abdyomunov, the VI Nomadic Games will take place in September 2026.

"The agency coordinates and implements the sporting component of the Games. Competitions will be held in approved types of ethno-sports. We will ensure the formation of national teams, hold qualifying and training camps, starting in 2025," Abdyomunov said.

He also added that a corps of judges consisting of domestic specialists and invited experts from abroad will be formed to ensure objective and professional judging. For the first time, a new format will be introduced—a club system aimed at increasing competition and reducing the politicization of sports.

“The sporting part of the Games is a key element of the entire program. It requires a high level of responsibility, clear coordination, and high-quality preparation. Funding for the sporting part will be provided from the republican budget, with the possible involvement of extrabudgetary funds,” Abdyomunov emphasized.