Games of the Future 2025 Abu Dhabi: The Games of the Future 2025 (GOTF 2025) is set to redefine the world of sports by merging real-world athleticism with digital gaming. Taking place from 18–23 December 2025 at the ADNEC Centre in Abu Dhabi, this groundbreaking event brings together elite clubs, athletes, and gamers to compete in phygital sports—a thrilling fusion of physical and digital competition.
Aligned with the UAE’s “We the UAE 2031” vision and celebrating the Year of Community 2025, GOTF 2025 showcases innovation, youth empowerment, and global collaboration in the world of sports.
| Event Name | Games of the Future 2025 (GOTF 2025) |
|---|---|
| Location | ADNEC Centre, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates |
| Dates | 18–23 December 2025 |
| Type of Event | Phygital Sports – Combination of physical sports and digital gaming |
| Disciplines | Phygital Football, Phygital Basketball, MOBA PC & Mobile, Battle Royale, Drone Racing, VR Dance Battles, Tech Sports & Robotics, Track & Field Events |
| Participating Clubs | PBC Astana, Thang Long Warriors, Intercosmics, CD Holcattes, Great Team Brazil, México Quetzales – Armadillos FC, CM Jardim, Greni Smith, Z10, FC WHITEBIRD, La Crema |
| Star Athletes | Rodrigo Ulibarri, Aldair Giorgana, Matheus Dedo |
| Organizers | ASPIRE (Local Delivery Authority), Ethara (Event Delivery Partner), Phygital International (Global Rights Holder) |
| Supporting Entities | Abu Dhabi Sports Council, Ministry of Sports |
| Purpose / Vision | Inspire youth, promote sports innovation, empower digital economy, foster community engagement, support UAE “We the UAE 2031” vision |
| Audience | Athletes, gamers, sports enthusiasts, families, and international visitors |
| Virtual Access | Live streaming and media coverage for global audience |
| Next Edition | GOTF 2026 in Astana, Kazakhstan |
What Are Phygital Sports?
Phygital sports combine physical athletic performance with esports challenges. Each discipline includes:
- A physical challenge performed on real fields or courts.
- A digital gaming challenge tested virtually.
- Final scores that merge results from both challenges.
This innovative format tests athleticism, strategic thinking, teamwork, and technical skill, making it a unique sporting experience for participants and fans alike.
Objectives of GOTF 2025
The Games of the Future aim to:
- Promote sports innovation and the digital economy.
- Empower youth and global athletes to showcase talent internationally.
- Support UAE’s We the UAE 2031 vision.
- Celebrate community values of inclusivity, teamwork, and collaboration.
Disciplines Featured at GOTF 2025
GOTF 2025 will host 11 cutting-edge disciplines, including:
| Discipline | Description | Notable Teams / Players |
|---|---|---|
| Phygital Football | Combines a real football match with a video game tournament | México Quetzales – Armadillos FC, CM Jardim |
| Phygital Basketball | Basketball matches alongside esports basketball games | Greni Smith, Z10 |
| MOBA (PC & Mobile) | Multiplayer online battle arena competitions | Intercosmics, CD Holcattes |
| Battle Royale | Last team standing in competitive gaming format | Great Team Brazil |
| Drone Racing | High-speed drone races using FPV headsets | Selected international pilots |
| Other Phygital Events | Emerging hybrid sports combining physical and digital skills | Multiple global clubs and athletes |
Participating Teams & Star Athletes
GOTF 2025 brings together elite clubs and athletes from Africa, Asia, Europe, and the Americas:
- International Clubs: PBC Astana, Thang Long Warriors, Intercosmics, CD Holcattes, Great Team Brazil
- Phygital Football Teams: México Quetzales – Armadillos FC, CM Jardim, Z10, FC WHITEBIRD, La Crema
- Star Athletes: Rodrigo Ulibarri, Aldair Giorgana, Matheus Dedo
These athletes exemplify the future of phygital sports, blending physical prowess with digital skills.
Organizers & Partners
GOTF 2025 is organized by:
- ASPIRE – Local Delivery Authority
- Ethara – Event Delivery Partner
- Phygital International – Global Rights Holder
Supported by:
- Abu Dhabi Sports Council
- Ministry of Sports
This collaboration ensures a world-class sporting event with international standards of innovation and logistics.
Venue & Fan Experience
The ADNEC Centre Abu Dhabi will be transformed into a futuristic arena, offering:
- Phygital arenas combining live action and virtual platforms
- On-site spectator engagement and live-stream options
- Interactive activities, fan zones, and immersive experiences
Fans worldwide can watch online or attend in person, experiencing the future of sports first-hand.
How to Attend / Tickets
Tickets for GOTF 2025 are available online via gotfabudhabi.com.
Steps to book tickets:
- Visit gotfabudhabi.com.
- Select your preferred ticket type: on-site or virtual.
- Choose dates and disciplines you want to attend.
- Complete payment and registration.
- Receive confirmation via email or mobile app.
Early registration is recommended as the event attracts global audiences.
Attractions & Events Games of the Future 2025 Abu Dhabi
| Event / Attraction | Description | Location / Timing |
|---|---|---|
| Opening Ceremony | Grand launch featuring performances, technology showcases, and introduction of participating teams. | ADNEC Centre, Dec 18, 2025 |
| Phygital Football Finals | High-stakes football matches combined with esports tournaments to determine the champion. | ADNEC Centre Stadium, Dec 19–20, 2025 |
| Phygital Basketball Showdowns | Basketball competitions merging real courts and digital gameplay. | ADNEC Sports Arena, Dec 19–21, 2025 |
| MOBA & Battle Royale Tournaments | Exciting esports competitions featuring strategic and team-based gameplay. | Gaming Hall, ADNEC, Dec 18–23, 2025 |
| Drone Racing Championship | FPV drone races with thrilling obstacles and high-speed action. | Outdoor Drone Arena, ADNEC, Dec 21, 2025 |
| Tech Sports & Robotics Expo | Innovative robotics and technology-based challenges showcasing cutting-edge tech. | ADNEC Innovation Hall, Dec 18–23, 2025 |
| VR Dance Battles | Virtual reality dance competitions with live audience engagement. | VR Arena, ADNEC, Dec 20–22, 2025 |
| Phygital Track & Field Finals | Athletic events combined with digital scoring challenges for overall winners. | Main Arena, ADNEC, Dec 22–23, 2025 |
| Closing Ceremony & Awards | Celebration of winners, highlights, and special performances. | ADNEC Centre, Dec 23, 2025 |
| Fan Zones & Interactive Exhibits | Hands-on experiences for visitors to try phygital sports and gaming demos. | Throughout ADNEC, Dec 18–23, 2025 |
Impact of GOTF 2025
The Games of the Future 2025 will:
- Inspire youth globally to embrace creativity and sportsmanship.
- Promote innovation in sports and gaming.
- Set the stage for future GOTF editions, including GOTF 2026 in Astana, Kazakhstan.
GOTF 2025 is more than a tournament—it is the future of phygital sports, blending athletic performance, esports, and technology in a revolutionary way.
FAQs
What are the Games of the Future 2025?
The Games of the Future 2025 is a global phygital sports event in Abu Dhabi that combines physical athletic competitions with digital gaming, featuring 11 innovative disciplines.
When and where will GOTF 2025 take place?
The event will be held from 18–23 December 2025 at the ADNEC Centre, Abu Dhabi, UAE.
What are phygital sports?
Phygital sports merge traditional sports with esports. Competitions include both real-world performance and digital gameplay, with combined scores determining winners.
Which sports and disciplines are included?
The event features Phygital Football, Phygital Basketball, MOBA PC & Mobile, Battle Royale, Drone Racing, VR Dance Battles, Tech Sports & Robotics, and Track & Field events.
Which clubs and athletes will participate?
Elite international clubs like PBC Astana, Thang Long Warriors, México Quetzales – Armadillos FC, and star athletes such as Rodrigo Ulibarri, Aldair Giorgana, Matheus Dedo will compete.
How can I buy tickets for GOTF 2025?
Tickets are available on the official website: gotfabudhabi.com. Early booking is recommended due to high demand.
Are there virtual viewing options?
Yes, media coverage and live streaming options will allow fans to watch the event online from anywhere in the world.
Is GOTF 2025 suitable for families and children?
Yes, the event is designed to be family-friendly, with interactive fan zones, exhibits, and safe viewing areas.
What is the purpose of the Games of the Future?
GOTF 2025 aims to inspire youth, promote sports innovation, empower the digital economy, and foster community and cultural exchange in line with the UAE’s “We the UAE 2031” vision.
Will there be future editions of the Games of the Future?
Yes, the next edition, GOTF 2026, will be hosted in Astana, Kazakhstan, continuing the global phygital sports initiative.
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