Important Update: Winter Games 2026 & New WTGF Winter Boot Camp

Dear Friends,

We wanted to share with you some important updates regarding our winter calendar.

The bad news:

The 2026 Winter World Transplant Games will not go ahead.

The good news:

We are launching a brand-new, fun, active, and social event for our community — the WTGF Winter Boot Camp in Anzère, Switzerland, taking place 7–14 March 2026.

Why the 2026 Winter Games Cannot Proceed

As many of you know, the original 2026 hosts had to withdraw due to political circumstances beyond their control.

Since then, we have spent considerable time exploring alternative options and working to secure a new host country. Unfortunately, despite these efforts, the timeline simply became too short to secure the substantial financial commitments, institutional partnerships, and resort capacity required for a full Winter Games. Without these guarantees, participation costs would have been too high for our community.

Winter Games are uniquely challenging to host: ski resorts operate at full capacity during the season, and only a very small number of locations worldwide can accommodate all required events. Given the constraints, proceeding with a 2026 Games would not have been viable.

Looking Ahead: Winter Games 2028 & Beyond

We are delighted to confirm that Germany will host the 2028 Winter World Transplant Games. Securing a host this early ensures the proper planning time and strong local support needed for what we believe will be our most successful Winter Games yet.

We have also begun early planning to identify a host for the 2030 Winter Games, ensuring continuity for our winter community.

Introducing the WTGF Winter Boot Camp

Anzère, Switzerland — 7–14 March 2026

While we cannot gather for a formal Games in 2026, we can come together for an uplifting week of sport, activity, and community.

Hosted by WTGF President Liz Schick in her hometown, the Winter Boot Camp will offer training, social connection, and mountain experiences for skiers and non-skiers alike. What to expect:

  • Daily race-training sessions for those wishing to develop or refine their racing skills, with training courses set up for participants
  • Activities for skiers and non-skiers, including Nordic walking, snowshoeing, and other guided options
  • A snow party and fun race day in the Anzère village square, hosted with Anzère Tourism
  • Evening activities, including guest speakers, karaoke, talent shows, and more
  • Curling friendly competitions, depending on interest
  • Optional learn-to-ski opportunities with referral discounts
  • 30% discount on ski equipment hire from the local ski shop

This event is perfect not only for skiers but also for families, supporters, and anyone who wants to enjoy a friendly and active winter experience together.

Logistics & Costs

To keep the Boot Camp accessible:

  • Registration fee: £70 per person
  • Participants will book their own accommodation
  • Participants will purchase their own ski lift passes
  • WTGF will provide full information on accommodation options, activities, local services, and discounts More details, including programme information and booking links, will be shared very soon.

Thank you for your understanding and for your continued support. Our commitment to celebrating life through sport — and promoting the life-saving gift of organ donation — remains at the heart of everything we do.

With appreciation,

The WTGF Team