World Transplant Games Federation

The World Transplant Games Federation (WTGF) is a United Kingdom-based nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting amateur sport amongst organ transplant recipients, living donors, and donor families. Established in 1978 and formally incorporated in 2017, the WTGF organizes international multi-sport events known as the World Transplant Games, which include both Summer and Winter editions held biennially on alternating years.

Purpose and Activities

The WTGF aims to:

• Promote the physical, mental, and emotional well-being of transplant recipients through sport and a healthy lifestyle.
• Raise public awareness about the importance and benefits of organ donation by showcasing what can be achieved post-transplant.
• Foster international friendship and solidarity among transplant recipients, donors, donor families, and the transplantation community worldwide.
• Promote education around transplantation and physical activity via medical research, conferences, and wellness programs.
• Support rehabilitation programs and wellness initiatives to encourage transplant recipients to become more active and improve their quality of life.

Events

The flagship events of the WTGF are the World Transplant Games, held every two years and featuring a variety of sports competitions for organ transplant recipients, living donors, and donor families from over 60 countries. The Games include disciplines such as cycling, swimming, darts, and bowling, among others. These events provide a level playing field for transplant athletes, who often face challenges due to lifelong immunosuppressant medication.

The 2025 World Transplant Games are scheduled to take place in Dresden, Germany, attracting athletes and teams from around 60 countries in a celebration of sport and organ donation.

History

The World Transplant Games originated in 1978 in Portsmouth, England, with about 100 athletes from several countries including the UK, France, Germany, Greece, and the United States. Since then, the Games have grown significantly in scale and scope, now featuring competitors from more than 60 nations and fostering a global transplant sports community.

Organization and Affiliations

The WTGF is headquartered in the United Kingdom and operates under a charitable status (Charity number: 1179470). It is affiliated with the International Olympic Committee, reflecting its commitment to the principles of amateur sport and international cooperation. The Federation's leadership includes President Liz Schick, among others.

Impact

Beyond organizing sporting events, the WTGF serves a vital role in advocating for organ donation worldwide, sharing new knowledge from clinical and biological studies related to transplantation, and encouraging the mental and social rehabilitation of recipients and donors. Its programs and events highlight the life-changing impact of organ transplantation and inspire transplant recipients to lead active, healthy lives.

This article summarizes the mission, history, and key activities of the World Transplant Games Federation, underscoring its role in advancing transplant sports and organ donation awareness globally.

[1] https://wtgf.org [2] https://wtg2025.com [3] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/World_Transplant_Games [4] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/World_Transplant_Games_Federation [5] https://www.youtube.com/@WTGF