Historic Start for the Implementation of the 59th International Children's Games by the Organizing Body 'OLYMPIA - ELIS 2027'

In a spirit of unity and profound responsibility, the first joint meeting of the Board of Directors and the Advisory Committee of the newly established body for the implementation of the International Children's Games "OLYMPIA - ELIS 2027" took place at the Ancient Olympia Town Hall.

The meeting marks the official launch of preparations for a sports event of global reach, co-organized by the Municipalities of Ancient Olympia and Ilida, as they reunite under the light of their shared historical heritage.

The meeting was attended by the members of the Board of Directors: the Mayor of Ancient Olympia and President of the Body, Mr. Aristidis Panagiotopoulos, the Mayor of Ilida and Vice President, Mr. Christos Christodoulopoulos, the Deputy Mayors for Sports, Mr. Giorgos Krallis and Mr. Antonis Chrysanthakopoulos and Ilida Municipal Councilor, Mr. Vasilis Papadopoulos.

Invaluable contributions were made by the Advisory Committee, which consists of: Mr. Nikos Tzanakos (Member of the ICG Executive Committee), Mr. Giorgos Devves (former Mayor of Ancient Olympia), Mr. Vasilis Kapsis (Special Advisor to the Mayor of Ancient Olympia), and Mr. Kostas Kriotsiotis (Special Associate to the Mayor of Ilida).

During the session, completed technical details regarding the operational framework of the organization were reviewed (including the issuance of a Tax ID number and integration into the national "DIAVGEIA" Transparency Portal). Additionally, a roadmap was outlined for the upcoming institutional meetings of the two Mayors at both local and national levels.

The shared ambition of the two Municipalities is for the 59th International Children's Games to transcend a typical sports event by:

1. Highlighting the land of Ilia as the cradle of the universal values of Olympism and the Olympic Truce.
2. Creating a "bridge" for the world's youth through a competitive, educational, and cultural celebration.
3. Leaving a distinct developmental footprint, ensuring a long-term legacy of modernized infrastructure and international exposure for the region.

For over a millennium, Ilida (Elis) and Olympia served as global symbols of peace and excellence. In 2027, they will once again become living points of reference, inspiring children across the globe with the values of friendship, respect, and equality.

Both Municipalities declare they are fully ready to work rigorously to ensure that the "OLYMPIA - ELIS 2027" Games write a new, historic chapter in hospitality and culture.