Iran’s Sports Minister Praises Delegation after Third-3rd Place Finish at Islamic Solidarity Games

Iran NOC; Tehran: In a statement released by the Ministry and the National Olympic Committee, Donyamali commended the “Ambassadors of Power” delegation, which won 29 gold, 19 silver and 33 bronze medals among 57 participating nations. He said the athletes, coaches and officials demonstrated “tireless commitment to raising the Iranian flag,” and praised the collective effort that enabled Iran to navigate the multi-sport event with “honor and dignity.”

The Minister highlighted what he described as one of the Games’ most significant outcomes: the sense of cohesion and solidarity reflected by the delegation, aligning with calls for national unity emphasized by Iran’s Supreme Leader. He noted that Iranian athletes displayed both technical excellence and cultural composure, earning the satisfaction of the public. Donyamali expressed particular appreciation for the women’s contingent, whose strong results in Riyadh underscored what he called the “remarkable and undeniable progress” of women’s sport in Iran. He said their medal-winning performances affirmed that the country offers “one of the most supportive environments for the growth and advancement of female athletes.”

The Minister also thanked medal winners and acknowledged the efforts of athletes who did not reach the podium, noting that their performances contributed meaningfully to the delegation’s overall identity and competitiveness. Looking ahead, Donyamali said that the outcomes of the Riyadh and Bahrain events will undergo technical evaluation in ongoing meetings with sports federations, aimed at strengthening preparations for the 2026 Asian Games in Nagoya and the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games in Los Angeles. He expressed gratitude for the backing of President Masoud Pezeshkian, members of the cabinet, parliament and the Iranian public. He added that despite challenging international schedules, Iran’s sporting programs have remained on course, citing positive results from the Deaflympics in Tokyo and the Asian Youth Para Games in the UAE.

He emphasized that the journey is “only beginning,” and pledged intensified efforts toward achieving new milestones at upcoming continental and global events. Donyamali also thanked the National Olympic Committee’s leadership and operational teams for ensuring a smooth and well-organized mission in Riyadh, and acknowledged the role of sports federations and families in supporting the athletes. He concluded by reaffirming the government’s commitment to expanding national pride and social vitality through sport, saying Iran will continue pursuing the vision of a “strong sport for a strong Iran.”