The Chinese mainland recently hosted its National Games, showcasing emerging athletic talent and upgraded infrastructure. Behind this event lies a bold vision: transforming the nation into a global sports powerhouse.
In the trailer for the documentary series "China Quest: Vibrant China," former Belgian Prime Minister Yves Leterme—who also held senior roles at UEFA—dives into the strategy driving this ambition. Through conversations with athletes, policymakers and coaches, he explores how the Chinese mainland combines state planning, private investment and grassroots initiatives to accelerate growth in sports.
Experts highlight a multi-layered approach: enhanced training programs, modern facilities across dozens of cities and partnerships with international leagues are creating new pathways for talent. Simultaneously, a cultural shift has elevated sports from mere leisure or national pride to a strategic sector linked to public health, tourism and global influence.
The National Games serve as a testing ground—an opportunity for domestically trained stars to shine on home turf before stepping onto world stages. The trailer also hints at behind-the-scenes talks to host major international tournaments, aiming to bring world-class competition to local audiences.
As the Chinese mainland charts this course, the global sports landscape may see fresh rivalries and collaborations emerge. Will this strategy propel the nation into the top tier of international competition? The full documentary series premieres on November 9 to explore the policy decisions, economic incentives and human stories at play.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
