The IWUF 4th Taolu World Cup successfully concluded in Haikou, Hainan, China, on July 8, 2026, marking a significant milestone for the sport as wushu prepares for its historic debut as an official medal sport at the Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games this November. The event, organized by the International Wushu Federation (IWUF), featured 11 men's and 11 women's events across fist routines, long weapons, short weapons, and duilian, with 22 gold medals contested over two days. A total of 206 participants, including 117 elite athletes from 29 countries and regions, competed, with medalists hailing from 18 countries and regions.
This competition was the first high-level international wushu single-discipline event hosted by Hainan since the establishment of the Hainan Free Trade Port. The port's unique geographical and policy advantages, such as visa-free access for citizens of 86 countries and a 240-hour transit visa-exemption policy, facilitated fast-track customs clearance for overseas participants, technical officials, and media. Additionally, specialized competition equipment benefited from zero-tariff treatment and simplified cross-border customs clearance procedures, showcasing the free trade port's operational benefits.
Hainan's deep-rooted wushu culture was also highlighted during the event. The province has developed a unique "Qiong-style" wushu system, blending various martial arts schools with local island folklore. Two counties and one city—Tunchang, Qiongzhong, and Wanning—are designated as "National Wushu Hometowns," preserving indigenous fighting styles such as the Li ethnic group's Li Family Fist, Tunchang Pochen Five-Form Stakes, and Wanning Mazai Kung Fu.
Concurrently, Hainan hosted the inaugural Hainan International Wushu Culture Month, featuring multiple "wushu + tourism" travel routes. These activities allowed domestic and international guests to enjoy the island's scenery and duty-free shopping benefits while attending high-level competitions. Looking forward, Hainan plans to integrate wushu elements into its sports-tourism product system, developing themed tourist destinations, study bases, and signature events to establish "spectator travel" as a new model for cultural tourism. The region also aims to attract wushu enthusiasts and professional teams worldwide for competitions, training, and cultural exchanges, positioning itself as a global hub for wushu development.
Separately, the 43rd Executive Committee Meeting of the IWUF decided that Haikou City will host the 12th Sanda World Cup, further solidifying Hainan's role in international wushu events. The successful conclusion of the Taolu World Cup underscores the growing global appeal of wushu and Hainan's strategic efforts to leverage sports for economic and cultural growth.
