Laos will host the 17th World Bodybuilding Championships, a first in the country’s sport history.
The event, approved by the World Bodybuilding and Physique Sports Federation (WBPF), will take place from 3 to 9 December at the Don Chan Palace Hotel in Vientiane.
WBPF President Datuk Paul Chua and Executive Director Christina Kam recently visited Vientiane to inspect the venue, confirming it meets international standards.
The announcement builds on the growing momentum for bodybuilding in Laos, a sport that has steadily gained recognition over the past decade. Bodybuilding is one of 33 sports confirmed for the 12th Lao National Games, scheduled for 15 to 25 November 2026.
The Lao Bodybuilding Federation has been competing internationally since 2017, with strong showings at the ASEAN Championships in 2018, 2019, and 2022.
One of Laos’ top athletes, Phouthsavanh Sisomphou, earned a bronze medal in the under-70kg category at the 31st SEA Games in Vietnam in 2022, a landmark achievement that further boosted the sport’s profile in Laos.
The 17th World Championships is a milestone for the Lao Bodybuilding Federation and will solidify Laos as a growing hub for bodybuilding competitions. It’s a major achievement in the country’s sporting history and will attract top athletes from around the world.


