From a Dutch Idea to China’s Green Heart: YOU.FO RingCross World Cup 2026 in Ya’an

The award-winning concept from innovator and public speaker Bas Ruyssenaars is conquering the world. What started as a boyhood experiment with a ring and a stick has evolved into a fast-growing international sport.

From July 8–12, 2026, the fourth edition of the YOU.FO RingCross World Cup will take place in Ya’an — a city known as the ecological heart of Sichuan Province and famous for its lush landscapes, Giant Pandas, rich culture and forward-looking development.

This will not simply be another tournament. It will be a cultural and sporting milestone.

What is YOU.FO?
YOU.FO is played with an aerodynamic ring and specially designed sticks, making it accessible as a leisure sport, widely used in schools, and exciting at competitive level. The official 3×3 format (RingCross) is mixed gender, features continuous play without a referee, and is scored by throwing the ring into designated end zones.

A World Cup with Global Ambition
No fewer than 70 teams from over 20 countries will participate.
In close cooperation with Chinese authorities and international partners, the 2026 edition will welcome teams from across Europe, Asia, North America and beyond. With strong governmental backing and a professional sports infrastructure, Ya’an provides the ideal stage for the most ambitious World Cup to date.
The event will blend dynamic urban sport with Chinese cultural heritage — creating a powerful symbol of connection between innovation and tradition.

The Founder Behind the Movement
YOU.FO was developed by Dutch innovator and Speakers Academy speaker Bas Ruyssenaars, who transformed a playful childhood concept into a patented sport now played in more than 30 countries.

His journey — from early experimentation and setbacks to international tournaments — mirrors his broader philosophy as co-founder of the Institute for Brilliant Failures: progress requires courage, adaptability and the willingness to learn.

From Idea to International Arena
The Ya’an edition marks a strategic breakthrough in the sport’s expansion across Asia. With growing traction in China, Japan and other regions, YOU.FO RingCross is steadily building an international ecosystem of schools, communities and competitive teams.

From Amsterdam to Ya’an. From invention to international movement. From bold idea to World Cup stage.
Inspiration, innovation and global connection — all in one ring.

Interested in booking Bas Ruyssenaars for a keynote or combining his innovation story with an interactive YOU.FO clinic? Speakers Academy can provide more information about this unique blend of vision and action.