Gay Games Valencia 2026 reach 5,000 registered participants
The countries with the largest presence so far are the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, Germany, Australia, France, and Spain.
The Gay Games XII València 2026 have surpassed 5,000 registered participants. The event—which will turn Valencia into a global hub for inclusive sports—now totals 5,026 sign-ups, already doubling participation numbers from the previous edition in Guadalajara (2,634) and Hong Kong (2,381).
Participants from the United States, Canada, and Australia continue to show strong loyalty to the event, while registration from the United Kingdom, Germany, France, and Spain is also notably high. Organizers are celebrating these milestones and emphasizing that Gay Games Valencia will be “a one-of-a-kind event for the LGTBIAQ+ community, where diversity takes center stage.”
The organizing committee continues fine-tuning the extensive sports and cultural program. They highlight that the Games will “showcase Valencia’s rich athletic culture and traditions,” including the chance to compete in two local sports: colpbol and pilota valenciana. Additionally, as recently announced, the opening ceremony will be hosted by Choriza May, the renowned drag performer originally from the region.
About the Gay Games
The Gay Games are an international event blending sports, culture, and community. They were founded nearly 50 years ago with a clear mission: to celebrate diversity and amplify the visibility of LGTBIAQ+ identities alongside all allies—removing barriers and focusing on participation, connection, and joy.
Gay Games XII Valencia 2026 will take place from June 27 to July 4, 2026. Over the course of the week, thousands of participants from around the globe will gather in Valencia to compete in dozens of sports—from soccer to pétanque—enjoy a wide range of cultural activities, and celebrate diversity together in a safe, inclusive environment.
