Minister of Sport and Youth Dr. Ahmad Donyamali expressed hope that the results achieved by Iranian athletes at the 6th Islamic Solidarity Games in Riyadh would pave the way for their successful participation in the 2026 Asian Games in Nagoya.
Iran NOC; Tehran: Speaking to
reporters on Friday after visiting the Athletes’ Village, Dr. Donyamali
emphasized the strong presence of Iran’s delegation at the Games, noting that
the registration of 190 Iranian athletes had been finalized. “Iran is among the
leading countries in the Islamic Solidarity Games with a large and capable
delegation,” he said. “Some of our teams have already begun their competitions,
and the rest will join according to their schedules. This edition is different
from previous ones. Unlike Baku or Konya, the number of sports disciplines has
been reduced, making the organization of the Games easier. Nevertheless, new
test events such as Kurash have been added, and Iranian athletes have already
won medals in them.” Dr. Donyamali described the Islamic Solidarity Games as an
important preparatory field for the upcoming Asian Games, stating, “The results
achieved here will serve as a prelude to the success of our national teams in
Nagoya 2026—the most important continental event, held every four years to
determine Asia’s sporting hierarchy. Our national teams are well-prepared, and
we hope their efforts will lead to outstanding performances in Nagoya.”
Commenting on his meeting with
the Saudi Minister of Sports, Prince Abdulaziz bin Turki Al-Faisal, he noted
that Asian countries, particularly Iran and Saudi Arabia, hold significant
positions in world sport. “Saudi Arabia’s sports development differs based on
its economic capacity, but gatherings like this offer opportunity for dialogue
and cooperation,” he said. “Although we recently met during the Asian Youth
Games in Bahrain, the Saudi minister requested another meeting here in Riyadh,
which reflects both sides’ interest in expanding bilateral sports cooperation. Asked
about the role of Iranian athletes in promoting unity among Muslim nations, Dr.
Donyamali replied, “Iran holds a prominent position in the Islamic world, and
Muslim countries have deep respect for Iranian athletes and the national flag.
This respect has grown especially after the recent 12-day conflict between Iran
and the Zionist regime. During my meeting with Sri Lanka’s Minister of Sports,
he explicitly stated that both the people and government of Sri Lanka stood in
solidarity with Iran during those days. This reflects Iran’s influence and
moral standing in the Islamic world. With the energy of our youth and the
experience of our veterans, we will continue to bring pride and happiness to
our people.”