Pilot Phygital Sports Projects to Launch in 59 Russian Schools

Pilot projects aimed at developing phygital sports will launch in 59 schools across 16 Russian regions, the government said. The programs are expected to lay the groundwork for integrating this new discipline into the general education system. The initiative combines physical exercise with digital technologies and is set to expand nationwide.

The phygital movement began in 2024 with the Igry Budushchego (Games of the Future) in Kazan, initiated by President Vladimir Putin. It quickly gained international momentum and is now developing in 130 countries.

Modern Training Platforms

Deputy Prime Minister Dmitry Chernyshenko said the projects lay the foundation for Russia to have trained personnel and a developed phygital sports system within a few years. Teachers are currently undergoing professional development, and a dedicated session on phygital sports will be included at the All-Russian Congress of Physical Education Teachers.

Beyond schools, the discipline is expanding through specialized phygital centers. Thirty-six have already opened in various cities, with another 38 scheduled to launch this year. According to Sports Minister and President of the Russian Olympic Committee Mikhail Degtyarev, these centers serve as “modern venues for hosting combined competitions that merge digital and traditional sports disciplines.”