On behalf of the Staff of International Academic Competitions, the organizing body of IGC 2026, I would like to welcome the 251 Competing Students of the 2026 International Geography Championships, together with their families, coaches, and chaperones to Khao Lak, Thailand! IAC is delighted to be holding IGC 2026 (its first-ever world championship tournament in Asia) at the JW Marriott Khao Lak Resort and Spa. 47 official medal events await, highlighted by the International Geography Bee and International Geography Bowl World Championships. Field trips, family events, ceremonies, resort activities, and more round out the schedule of events. Among the 251 Competing Students are the first-ever students to represent Hawaii, Indonesia, Ireland, Kansas, Nevada, Puerto Rico, Rhode Island, and Romania at the International Geography Championships. For Hawaii, Ireland, Rhode Island, and Romania, this marks the first-ever participation at any IAC world championship tournament. 296 Family and Friends Program Members are also set to compete in select competitions and attend the field trips.
For questions and press inquiries, please contact igc@iacompetitions.com. We wish all Competing Students and attendees a wonderful time in Thailand and a successful IGC 2026!
David Madden
International Academic Competitions, Founder and Executive Director
2026 International Geography Championships, Tournament Director