Pentagon signs off on support for Charlotte to host Military World Games in 2027
The Pentagon signed off Thursday on Charlotte to host the event known as the Military World Games in summer 2027.
If selected, it’s estimated to bring $3 billion in revenue to the state, according to an economic study of past games cited by Sen. Ted Budd in a past committee hearing.
Jules Hurst, undersecretary of defense for personnel and readiness, submitted a letter Thursday o Nilton Rolim, president of the International Military Sports Council in Belgium, confirming the Department of Defense’s support. McClatchy obtained the letter from the North Carolina World Military Games Local Organizing Committee, which would host the games.
“The Department believes that bringing this prestigious event to North Carolina and the United States will honor our armed forces and contribute to their visibility on an international stage,” Hurst wrote.
Hurst’s endorsement does not guarantee Charlotte will host the games. But support from the Department of Defense was needed if the United States intended to continue with their bid against South Africa, who also wants to host the event.
Created in 1995, the Military World Games is meant to bring together militaries from across the world for friendly competitions. It was created by the International Military Sports Council.
The summer games are held every four years, with previous host countries including Italy, Croatia, India, China, South Korea and Brazil.
Athletes compete in traditional sports like archery, boxing and diving, as well as military competitions like aeronautical pentathlon and naval pentathlon.
Budd, a Republican from Davie County, urged the Pentagon last spring to support the bid for North Carolina to host the event. He said North Carolina’s many sports venues, colleges and transportation systems made it well-suited to host the event.
Budd, Sen. Thom Tillis and 12 of North Carolina’s 14 House members sent a letter to the DOD reiterating that message.
Hurst noted in his letter Thursday that the local organizing committee would be in charge of overseeing the planning, coordination and execution of the event, and any associated financial obligations. He said the Department of Defense would not provide fiscal or financial support.
“The North Carolina World Military Games LLC has represented to the Department of Defense that it has a robust plan in place and the support of key stakeholders, including local government, business, and community organizations, to demonstrate it’s ability to deliver a meaningful experience for the athletes, officials and spectators,” Hurst wrote.