With just over 100 days to go, China is ramping up preparations for its 15th National Games, which will run from November 9 to 21, 2025. A press conference held by China's State Council Information Office in Beijing on July 25 provided updates on the event's preparations and highlights.
Three hosts work in unity
The Games mark the first time Guangdong, Hong Kong, and Macao are jointly hosting a major sports event. The Games will take place across 19 cities, including Guangzhou, Shenzhen, Hong Kong, and Macao, said Tong Lixin, Vice Minister of the General Administration of Sport of China.
Among the highlights is the first-ever cross-border marathon, linking Shenzhen and Hong Kong, and the road cycling race that traverses Zhuhai, Macao, and Hong Kong. For the two competitions, pre-clearance and seamless border crossing will be introduced to ease border crossings for athletes and fans.
The Games' emblem also reflects the unity among the three hosts, combining the red kapok flower (Guangdong), purple bauhinia (Hong Kong), and green lotus (Macao). These colors also appear in the water sprays of the dolphin mascots.
Technology at the forefront
The 15th Games aim to deliver a fully tech-enabled experience. Smart technologies will enhance every aspect of the experience, from AR-based seat navigation to AI-powered viewing with real-time stats and customizable perspectives.
Behind the scenes, AI-enabled security and 12-minute interval weather updates will help optimize event management and safety. The opening and closing ceremonies will also feature VR, AI, low-altitude flights, and extended reality elements.
An easier ride for spectators
Transportation upgrades are another key focus. A total of 623 roads have been improved or expanded, and three new intercity rail lines and seven metro extensions in Guangzhou, Shenzhen, and other cities are set to open. For attendees with disabilities, the Games will provide smart barrier-free seating, autonomous shuttle buses, and robotic guide dogs.
A greener National Games
In a significant departure from past editions, over 90% of competition venues are refurbished rather than newly built. No large-scale new venues are being constructed, marking a first in the Games' history and aligning with broader green development goals.
Charm in and beyond the stadium
Beyond the competitions, the Games aim to highlight Lingnan culture. Cantonese opera and other regional cultures will be featured in both the opening and closing ceremonies. A new “Travel with the Games” campaign will roll out 17 themed city tours, while working with travel agencies in Hong Kong and Macao to offer cross-border tourism packages.
The sharing spirit
To make the tickets more accessible, organizers will offer affordable ticket prices, and sales will be opened in phases beginning in late August. Yet the ticketing platform will go online in advance in early August, allowing real-name registration, schedule searches, and travel planning.
As Hong Kong and Macao vehicles can now drive north into Guangdong, and China's 240-hour visa-free transit policy is in effect, coming for the competitions in Guangdong will be easier for fans outside the province.
Meanwhile, fans heading to Macao in November will also have a chance to catch the 72nd Macau Grand Prix, running alongside the National Games.
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