RIYADH: It is all systems go in Riyadh ahead of the 2023 World Combat Games, which will take place at King Saud University from October 20-30.It is the first staging of the games in the Middle East and adds to the list of international sporting events that are been successfully held in the Kingdom. “We can’t wait to welcome fans to the Riyadh 2023 World Combat Games,” said Chief Operating Officer World Combat Games Paul Hardy. Hardy said that he has received nothing but positive feedback from athletes and International Federations who have already toured the facilities. More than 1,500 athletes from 80 countries are set to compete in 16 sports: aikido, arm wrestling, boxing, fencing, judo, ju-jitsu, karate, kendo, kickboxing, muaythai, sambo, savate, sumo, taekwondo, wrestling and wushu. For some sports, the event will provide athletes with a top-calibre test ahead of next summer’s Olympic Games Paris 2024. An exceptional opening ceremony is expected on October 19 in the Green Hall at Prince Faisal bin Fahad Olympic Complex. The official website for ticket sales can be found here. Ticket kiosks will also be located at King Saud University Stadium throughout the duration of the Games. As part of the event’s inclusive nature, free admission will be granted to families of participating athletes, children under 12 and senior citizens.