The Opening Ceremony of the 2026 Asian Youth and Junior Weightlifting Championships was held at the Olympic City in Tashkent, Uzbekistan.
Representatives of national and international sports organizations, officials and distinguished guests gathered to welcome talented young weightlifters from across Asia.
The ceremony was attended by Odil Abdurakhmonov, Representative of the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan for Sport; Adham Ikramov, Minister of Sport of Uzbekistan; Oybek Kasimov, Secretary General of the National Olympic Committee of Uzbekistan; Mohammed Hasan Jalood, President of the International Weightlifting Federation; Mohammed Yousef Al-Mana, President of the Asian Weightlifting Federation; Sherzod Khidoyatov, Chairman of the Uzbekistan Weightlifting Federation; and Shakhrillo Makhmudov, First Deputy Chairman of the Federation.
The ceremony began with a video highlighting Uzbekistan’s sporting potential, the opportunities being created for young people and the country’s continued development of weightlifting.
Performances by national dance ensembles brought a festive Uzbek spirit to the event. The presentation of the participating nations’ flags became a powerful symbol of friendship, solidarity and unity within Asian sport.
In their addresses, the distinguished guests praised Uzbekistan’s efforts to develop sport and encourage greater participation among young people. They also highlighted the attention given to weightlifting, the conditions created for athletes and the country’s achievements on the international stage.
During his speech, IWF President Mohammed Hasan Jalood expressed his gratitude for being granted honorary citizenship by the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan. He described the distinction as recognition of Uzbekistan’s commitment to developing sport and strengthening international sporting cooperation.
The official part of the ceremony concluded with the National Anthem of the Republic of Uzbekistan.
A colourful cultural programme followed, combining national traditions with contemporary performances.
The performances showcasing Uzbekistan’s cultural heritage and national values made a warm and lasting impression on the international visitors.
With the championships now officially open, Tashkent is once again hosting a major international sporting event.
More than 300 young weightlifters representing 29 countries will compete for medals at the Asian Youth and Junior Weightlifting Championships.
