The 25th World Transplant Games in Dresden, Germany, wrapped up after seven unforgettable days of sportsmanship, resilience, and life-affirming stories. Athletes, families, and supporters from around the globe celebrated what many are calling the “best games ever,” marking a milestone event that not only highlighted athletic excellence but also the profound gift of organ donation.

A Week of Triumph and Inspiration

With 2,500 participants from 51 countries competing in 17 sports, the Games showcased the power of second chances. The event recorded an awe-inspiring 5,953,928 gifted days—16,312 years of life—made possible through organ donation. From the youngest competitor at just five years old to the oldest at 89, every participant stood as a living testament to courage and medical innovation.

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25th World Transplant Games in Dresden

Photo credit: © WTG2025/YesVideography The 25th World Transplant Games concluded in Dresden with an emotional finale that celebrated life, resilience, and global unity. Over seven days, 2,500 athletes from 51 countries competed in 17 sports, showcasing the incredible strength of transplant recipients and the power of organ donation. Great Britain topped the medal table, followed by Germany and the United States, as the Games closed with the symbolic "Circle of Life” and the passing of the “Baton of Life” to Leuven, Belgium, host of the 2027 Games. Highlights included moving cultural events, the largest distribution of donor cards in Germany, and heartfelt messages from transplant advocates like Elke Büdenbender and Roland Kaiser, leaving an enduring legacy of hope and second chances.

Global Champions and Medal Highlights

Great Britain dominated the medal table with 173 gold, 132 silver, and 98 bronze medals, followed by Germany and the United States. The energy at the Heinz-Steyer-Stadium reached its peak during the final athletics events before the athletes united for the traditional “Circle of Life”—a powerful symbol of unity and gratitude. The “Baton of Life” was ceremoniously passed to Leuven, Belgium, host city for the 2027 World Transplant Games.

Unforgettable Moments and Community Spirit

From the breathtaking triathlon at Brettmühlenteich to the moving Intercultural Celebration at Frauenkirche, every moment reinforced the Games’ mission: to inspire and advocate for organ donation. The week concluded with a Gala Dinner, where tears of joy and laughter filled the room as participants and supporters reflected on the life-changing event. 

Medical Excellence and Volunteer Dedication

Behind the scenes, a dedicated team of 120 medical professionals from University Hospital Dresden and Städtisches Klinikum Dresden ensured athlete safety, addressing everything from medication needs to emergency care. Volunteers and organizers worked tirelessly, proving that such a monumental event thrives on compassion and teamwork.

Powerful Voices: Advocates and Ambassadors

Prominent guests, including Elke Büdenbender, Germany’s First Lady and kidney transplant recipient, and legendary singer Roland Kaiser, a lung transplant survivor, added heartfelt messages of hope. Their personal journeys underscored the life-saving importance of organ donation and inspired thousands to take action.

Legacy Beyond the Games

In addition to sports, the Games hosted the IPSOT Medical Symposium, spotlighting the role of physical activity in transplant recovery. Organ donation awareness surged as the event facilitated the largest-ever distribution of donor cards in Germany, with 100,000 cards circulated during the Games and another 20,000 set for future distribution.

Looking Ahead

As the Games close in Dresden, the legacy continues—with renewed global commitment to organ donation, medical innovation, and the celebration of life. Leuven, Belgium, now carries the “Baton of Life”, ready to welcome the world in 2027 for the next chapter of this extraordinary journey.

For more information, visit www.wtg2025.com.