Doha: The Organizing Committee of the 2026 FISU World University Weightlifting Championship announced on Sunday that all preparations have been completed for the 10th edition of the championship. The event will take place in Doha from September 8 to 12, featuring around 116 athletes representing 21 countries.
According to Qatar News Agency, the announcement was made during a press conference held at the Multaqa (Education City Student Center). The event was attended by President of the Qatar Collegiate Sports Federation (QCSF) and Chairman of the Organizing Committee, HE Dr. Ibrahim bin Saleh Al Nuaimi; Secretary-General of the QCSF and Vice Chairman of the Organizing Committee, Rashid Saeed Adiba; and Mr. Marko Zunic, a Member of the Executive Committee of the International University Sports Federation (FISU), along with representatives of sponsors, partners, and the media.
Dr. Ibrahim bin Saleh Al Nuaimi emphasized that hosting the championship reflects Qatar's commitment to supporting university sport and enhancing its presence on the international stage. He praised the role of sponsors, partners, and the media in supporting the event and promoting its message to audiences in Qatar and worldwide.
The Chairman of the Organizing Committee welcomed the participating delegations, stressing that the championship aims to celebrate the spirit of university sport and promote fair play, communication, understanding, and friendship among young people from different cultures. He noted that the championship reflects the core values of FISU, including excellence, teamwork, innovation, the joy of sport, and integrity. These values align with the principles of the Qatar Collegiate Sports Federation and its commitment to developing university sport.
Rashid Saeed Adiba, QCSF Secretary-General and Vice Chairman of the Organizing Committee, confirmed that Doha is prepared to host the championship. He stated that preparations have been conducted through an integrated organizational system based on international standards, providing athletes and delegations with an ideal environment combining technical excellence and organizational efficiency.
He explained that the 10th edition is under the auspices of the International University Sports Federation (FISU), with competition taking place at the Multaqa (Education City Student Center), while training sessions are held at Ezdan Palace Hotel. The participating countries include Qatar, Azerbaijan, Bulgaria, Canada, Denmark, Ecuador, Spain, Finland, Great Britain, Hungary, Ireland, Iraq, Korea, Moldova, Poland, Puerto Rico, Romania, Sri Lanka, Slovakia, Chinese Taipei, and the United States of America.
Adiba added that the competition will feature eight men's weight categories and eight women's categories in the Snatch and Clean and Jerk events. He noted that the championship is the second world event organized by the QCSF since its launch in 2023, following the successful hosting of the FISU University World Cup 3x3 Basketball. This reflects the federation's growing presence on the international university sports scene and its vision to strengthen Qatar's position on the global university sports map.
He also highlighted the significance of Doha hosting this edition, as the championship returns to the international calendar after a hiatus dating back to 2018. Doha provides the platform for its return to the global university sports scene.
The championship features a distinctive Qatari identity through its mascot, Rimal, reflecting Qatar's environment, heritage, and welcoming spirit towards visitors. The visual identity reflects the values of strength, balance, and excellence inspired by weightlifting and Qatar's national identity.
At the conclusion of the press conference, the Organizing Committee welcomed all participating delegations and athletes, wishing them a pleasant stay, success in the competition, and an outstanding sporting experience, as well as lasting memories of Qatar.