The biennial World Transplant Games will be coming to Leuven in july 2027. The games are an international multisport event for transplant patients and living donors.

The games are a tribute to the donors and their families and aim to promote the importance of organ donation through sport. Last year, a bid to host the games in 2025 in Leuven was submitted, but that organisation was awarded to the city of Dresden. Because the World Transplant Games Federation (WTGF) were impressed by the Leuven bid, the federation chose Leuven for the organisation of the next games in 2027.

“The World Transplant Games will take place in Belgium for the very first time, and we are proud to welcome another world-class sporting event to our city”, says mayor Mohamed Ridouani. “These games symbolise the inclusive city that we are. In Leuven we make it possible for everyone to participate in sport ansd exercise, regardless of your background, or physical condition. because exercise and sport are essential for a healthy life. In addition, we want to raise awareness for organ donation and give transplant patients an inspiring perspective on what is possible. Togethers with the organisational partners, the residents of Leuven, the athletes and their friends and family we will turn into a wonderful and sportive gathering.”