The World Phygital Community (WPC) held its second General Meeting in Astana on 29 July, bringing together WPC members from across the world on the opening day of the Games of the Future 2026 presented by Samruk-Kazyna.
Led by David Feng, the WPC’s new chairman, the meeting gave members the chance to reflect on the community’s progress over the past year and set the direction for its next stage of development. It was also the first chance for members to learn about Phynder, the organization’s new commercial platform.
Members voted in favor of five motions designed to support the community’s long-term development:
- New rules for applicant countries
- The introduction of an Affiliate Member designation (formerly known as Associate Members) with its own rights and responsibilities
- A minimum discipline requirement for Affiliate Members
- An updated framework for Associate Members
- A refreshed membership certificate renewed each season to reflect a member’s status and disciplines.
Together, the reforms give the WPC a more defined path for countries joining the movement and a clearer set of expectations for members already in it.
In his first speech in his new role, David Feng told members:
“The motions approved today mark a real step forward for WPC, building a more dynamic and transparent membership framework as we continue to grow alongside our community.”
Members also got a first look at Phynder, a new platform designed to help WPC members connect with brand partners and turn their assets – such as events, athletes and programs – into sponsorship-ready opportunities. Phynder is live now and members can find more details and sign up at phyndermatch.com.
The year in review
The General Meeting started with an update on progress from Dan Merkley, the outgoing WPC chairman, who has just taken up his new role as CEO of Phygital International. He reflected on the organization’s progress during the past year, with membership currently standing at 120 WPC members from 116 countries. He also spoke with pride about his time at WPC, saying:
“My roots are with this community, and everything I take into my new role has been shaped by all of you and your work building phygital sport in your own countries.”
The meeting also gave members the chance to share feedback directly with WPC leadership, continuing the organization’s commitment to collaboration and transparency as it grows.
Four WPC members were also recognized for their contributions over the past year.
- Phygital Brazil won the Social Impact Award for its work connecting the movement with public service, government and non-profit partners, including its schools programme.
- The CIS-based Agency for the Development of Computer and Other Sports [SL1.1]won Best Tournament.
- Phygital Games Spain was named Most Improved Member for its progress in the incentive program
- Phygital South Africa took Highest Performing Member for its results both in competitions and in the incentive program.
Wrapping up the meeting, David Feng said:
“Today’s General Meeting demonstrated the strength of our global community and the value of bringing our members together to shape its future. I’d like to thank everyone who openly shared their thoughts today and congratulate this year’s award recipients for their outstanding contributions to phygital sport.”
As the Games of the Future Astana 2026 gets underway, the WPC enters its next chapter with a modernized membership framework, a new commercial platform for members, and the continued momentum of a growing global community.
