The 2023 International Blind Sport Federation (IBSA) World Games are coming to campus!

In just a few weeks, the 2023 International Blind Sport Federation (IBSA) World Games will be taking place here in Birmingham, and we can’t wait!

About the IBSA World Games

From 18-27 August 2023, the multi-sport event for blind and partially sighted athletes will be held at the University of Birmingham, the Edgbaston area and wider region.

It’s the first time the Games have been held in the UK, and more than 1,600 competitors from 70 nations will be taking part.

They occur every four years and are organised by the International Blind Sports Federation.

After the success of the Birmingham Commonwealth Games last year, we’re proud to be hosting archery, blind football, chess, judo, and showdown. Other sports, such as tennis, goalball, ten pin bowling, cricket, and powerlifting will be hosted at other venues in the region.

We’re also excited to provide IBSA’s first Games village - a base where up to 1,947 competitors can stay, socialise, and dine during the Games, and make memories to last a lifetime.

The Athletes' Village will be based at the Vale, in Shackleton, Mason, Chamberlain and Elgar Court, just as it was at the Commonwealth Games.

How you can get involved

There’ll be lots for you to get involved with over the 10 days, including an accessible and fun ‘Have a go’ zone in Chancellor’s Court. Most of the sports happening on campus will be free to the public to spectate but some sports are ticketed events, including blind football and judo. Visit the official IBSA Games 2023 website to find out more about how you can buy tickets.

You can also learn more about the IBSA World Games and what’s happening on campus on our intranet pages.

If you’re volunteering for the Games, and would like to share your experience with other students, drop us an email at studentcommunications@contacts.bham.ac.uk – we’d love to hear from you!