Manama, Bahrain – Mr. Mohammed Jalood, President of the International Weightlifting Federation, recently visited Manama, Bahrain, where the 2024 IWF World Championships are scheduled to take place from December 4-15. During his visit, Mr. Jalood was briefed on the extensive preparations being made for the event.
On July 9, a significant meeting was held at the Al Wadi Palace, attended by prominent sports figures including His Highness Sheikh Khalid bin Hamad Al Khalifa, First Deputy Chairman of the Supreme Council for Youth and Sports, President of the General Sports Authority, and President of the Bahrain Olympic Committee; His Highness Sheikh Salman bin Mohammed Al Khalifa, Vice President of the General Sports Authority; His Highness Sheikh Isa bin Ali Al Khalifa, Vice President of the Olympic Committee; Dr. Abdul Rahman Sadiq Askar, CEO of the General Sports Authority; Mr. Faris Mustafa Al Kooheji, Secretary General of the Olympic Committee; and Mr. Eshaq Ebrahim Eshaq, President of the Bahrain Weightlifting Federation.
IWF President Mohammed Jalood with HH Sheikh Khalid bin Hamad Al Khalifa
HH Sheikh Khalid bin Hamad Al Khalifa extended a warm welcome to Mr. Jalood, lauding the IWF’s efforts to promote weightlifting globally. He emphasized the strong relationship between Bahrain and the IWF, highlighting the ongoing cooperation between them.
During the reception, the IWF and the Bahrain Weightlifting Federation officially signed the Host Agreement for the 2024 IWF World Championships, marking the first time the event will be held in the Kingdom.
Following the signing, Mr. Eshaq provided a comprehensive overview of the preparations, detailing the facilities, and logistics related to accommodation, transportation, marketing, and promotion.
HH Sheikh Khalid bin Hamad Al Khalifa expressed pride in the host agreement, underscoring the IWF’s confidence in Bahrain’s organizational and sporting capabilities. He noted that hosting the championship would enhance Bahrain’s reputation as a premier sports destination and boost the popularity of weightlifting among the country’s youth, similar to the impact of the 2022 Asian Weightlifting Championships held in Manama.
“We are profoundly honoured to host the 2024 IWF World Championships in Bahrain. This prestigious event signifies our unwavering commitment to advancing the sport of weightlifting and reflects our nation’s ability to organise world-class events. The overwhelming support from our sports authorities and the entire community has been truly inspiring,” said Mr. Eshaq. “We are dedicated to ensuring that this championship not only meets but exceeds the expectations of the International Weightlifting Federation, providing an unforgettable experience for all participants and spectators.”
Mr. Jalood also expressed his optimism and satisfaction following the meeting. “I had a very fruitful meeting in Bahrain with all the authorities in charge of the organisation of the 2024 IWF World Championships in December! The entire nation is mobilised for this great event and all sports officials are doing their best to ensure that our showcase will be unforgettable for the athletes, coaches, officials, and all those watching the performances of our lifters,” he declared.
“I could witness the level of professionalism and the enthusiasm leading to the IWF World Championships and I am sure that the preparation will run smoothly and in a timely manner. I take the opportunity to express my gratitude to Mr. Eshaq Ebrahim Eshaq, the President of the Bahrain Weightlifting Federation and his entire team for the hospitality this week and for their commitment in delivering a great event in December!” concluded Mr. Jalood.
The Asian Weightlifting Federation is confident that Bahrain will successfully organize another major event. We wish them all the best in their preparations and look forward to an outstanding championship.