Officials kicked off the final-year countdown to the 26th Shandong Province Sports Games on Aug 26 at Linyi People's Square, unveiling a broader, greener event set to open here on Aug 26, 2026.

The Games will run 10 to 12 days and feature 38 sports – up 19 percent – comprising 1,081 disciplines and 1,608 gold medals. Equestrian, baseball (softball), golf, water polo, figure skating and ice hockey will debut as official events, drawing more than 13,000 athletes and 3,000 coaches, referees and staff.

To meet demand, the city has built or renovated 34 venues; 11, including the Olympic Sports Park Stadium, are already certified, and all will be finished by December. Nineteen sponsors have signed on, supplying vehicles, water and promotional services.

Preparation is now underway for 36 sports' teams – 2,400 athletes are now training with imported coaches – while a "five-guarantee" plan covers transport, lodging, catering, medical care and volunteer support.

The mascots of the 26th Shandong Province Sports Games make an appearance at the countdown launch ceremony. [Photo/LYTODAY]

A tai chi fan performance is held at the ceremony site. [Photo/LYTODAY]