IWF Athletes Commission reaffirms vitality of IWF events around the world
The recent IWF World Junior Championships in Egypt showcased the very best of international weightlifting, bringing together talented young athletes from across the globe in a celebration of excellence, determination, and sportsmanship.
We extend our heartfelt congratulations to all medallists for their outstanding achievements and performances on the world stage. Equally, we commend every athlete who participated in the championship, your commitment, resilience, and dedication to the sport continue to inspire the global weightlifting community.
Forrester Osei (right), accompanied by fellow athletes in Ismailia
Fifteen World Records have been improved in Ismailia, proving that the future of our Sport is definitively bright and is in good hands. Special congratulations to the teams of China and Iran, leaders of the medal charts in the women’s and men’s events, respectively.
We also wish to express our sincere gratitude to the Egyptian Weightlifting Federation and the African Weightlifting Federation for their exceptional hospitality and the excellent organisation of the competition. Their efforts ensured a successful and memorable event for athletes, coaches, officials, and supporters alike.
As the international calendar continues, we acknowledge the ongoing continental championships taking place around the world. The African and Asian showcases are presently producing outstanding performances, and we wish all athletes competing the very best of success on the platform. In recent weeks, the Pan-American Championships in Panama and the Universal Cup in Samoa were also highlighted by superb results.
We would also like to recognise the progressive, inclusive, and flexible approach demonstrated by several Organisers and Member Federations around the globe by allowing nations unable to participate in the Junior Championships due to the current regional situation of conflict, to take part in their events. This initiative reflects the true spirit of solidarity, opportunity, and unity within our sport, ensuring that athletes continue to have pathways to international competition despite challenging circumstances.
The Sport is and must always remain an activity promoting Peace and Friendship among nations in the world. Countries in the five continents send their best athletes to our events, so they can compete in a spirit of fair-play, equality and mutual respect. Sport erases boundaries and the only criteria remain the level of performance of each lifter on the platform. The IWF and its Athletes Commission are active promoters of a Sport in which all athletes from all nations rightfully deserve their place to compete!
Forrester Osei is an active member of the IWF Executive Board
Because only together, through cooperation, respect, and shared passion, the global weightlifting family continues to grow stronger. The IWF promotes comradeship, mutual respect, and peace beyond borders, uniting athletes through the shared values of sport, fairness, and international friendship.
Forrester Osei
IWF AC Chairman
