From January 15 to 18, the best archers on the planet will meet for the 28th edition of the International Indoor Archery Tournament. Organized by the Arc Club of Nîmes, it is today a reference in the field.
Through the strength and mutual assistance of volunteers and the financial means of its partners, the International Indoor Archery Tournament will continue to amaze in 2026. From January 15 to 18, the greatest of the profession will meet in Nîmes, an event that should not be missed. Integrated for nine years in the Indoor World Series archery circuit with Las Vegas (USA), the capital of Gard represents a destination of choice for athletes, but also for numerous sponsors around the world.
No fewer than 1,350 athletes spread across 48 nationalities and five continents are expected for this fifth stage of the world circuit, after Lausanne, Luxembourg, Taipei, Rio de Janeiro, and just before Mérida and Las Vegas. For the occasion, three competition sites were selected: Palais des Sports – Le Parnasse, Parc des Expositions, L’Estanque. The finals will be broadcast live so that fans around the world can admire the talent of each of the high-level athletes.
On the Nîmes side, we will find the two 2024 Olympic vice-champions Baptiste Addis (7th in the world) and Jean-Charles Valladont (36th in the world). “Just a few days after mentioning the NUT during a press conference, we can assure that Nîmes is more than ever a city of sport”welcomes the sports assistant, Thierry Procida. And it is not the 40,000 or so members of sports associations in Nîmes who will say the opposite.
Economic benefits
Since the 2003 tournament, the competition has seen its notoriety explode in the eyes of the world, and can boast of bringing great economic benefits to the city of Antonin. It is estimated that revenues for the city each weekend are around two million euros, between overnight stays and on-site consumption (bar, restaurant, etc.).
Over the years, the Arc Club de Nîmes has succeeded in its challenge, built on several key elements. First, sports results. “We have always ensured that children develop their ambition”justifies the sports director, Olivier Grillat. Second, the development of the local and popular economy. “The tournament has a positive economic impact, especially at a time of year when tourism is usually calm”he adds. Add to that a great involvement of all the volunteers and athletes of the club, and you get a cocktail that works.
