The Iranian sports delegation, competing under the name “Martyr Makan Nasiri,” was officially farewell to the 4th Youth Olympic Games in Dakar during a formal ceremony at the National Olympic Academy, attended by high-ranking officials and federation president.
Iran
NOC; Tehran: The ceremony, held at the NOA Farsi Hall, was presided over by
Minister of Sport and Youth Dr. Ahmad Donyamali, NOC Secretary General Dr. Mahdi
Alinejad, and Chef de Mission Dr. Hamid Azizi. The delegation, comprising 29
athletes, 14 girls and 15 boys, across 14 different sports, has undergone a
rigorous preparation phase. Chef de Mission highlighted that the NOC managed
extensive coordination to ensure the team’s readiness, encompassing
comprehensive medical screenings, vaccinations, visa logistics, and specialized
training camps. Notably, for the first time, all athletes and technical staff
participated in educational workshops to ensure they represent Iran effectively
both as athletes and cultural ambassadors.
Sports
Minister Donyamali addressed the ceremony, acknowledging the long-awaited
nature of these Games following their postponement from the Buenos Aires cycle
due to the pandemic. Reflecting on the significance of holding the event in
Africa, the Minister emphasized on the importance of maintaining a “champion’s
lifestyle” regardless of age. He specifically praised the significant female
representation in the squad and urged the athletes to visualize victory. The
ceremony also featured a screening of the Iranian delegation’s successful
performance at the 2026 Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games, serving as an inspirational
precedent for the youth team.
In a
strong move to bolster support, Dr. Donyamali announced a comprehensive
incentive package for the participants. In addition to the existing podium
bonuses provided by the National Olympic Committee, the Ministry of Sport will financially
award every gold medalist. Furthermore, the Minister confirmed that all male
medalists would be granted exemptions from mandatory military service, a
significant social incentive for the young competitors. The event concluded
with the athletes’ oath and honoring of the national flag, in the presence of
numerous federation officials, NOC executives, and the families of the
athletes.