Historic revival of Military Weightlifting as the first Military Challenge opens in Iran
TEHRAN (IRI) - A new chapter in military sport began on October 1, 2026, as the First World Military Weightlifting Challenge officially opened in Babolsar on the shores of the Caspian Sea in northern Iran. Hosted by the Armed Forces of the Islamic Republic of Iran under the auspices of the International Military Sports Council (CISM), the event marked the long-awaited revival of military weightlifting within CISM after nearly five decades, the last edition dating back to 1976 in Baghdad.
Eight nations took part in this historic event: Iran, Russia, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Nigeria, Sri Lanka, Armenia, and the DPR Korea. Thirty-nine elite military athletes gathered in an atmosphere of camaraderie and respect, demonstrating exceptional skill, determination, and discipline. The presence of world and Olympic champions, including Ruslan Nurudinov of Uzbekistan, gave the competition an impressive level of prestige and international visibility.
The opening ceremony took place in a setting combining Iranian culture, military precision, and the universal spirit of friendship through sport. Distinguished guests included Major General Mahmoud Sheikh Hassani, Deputy Chief of Staff of the Iranian Armed Forces, Brigadier General Jamshid Fooladi, Chief of the Iranian Delegation to CISM and Member of the CISM Board of Directors, and Colonel Reza Bagheri, representing CISM Headquarters.
Major General Mahmoud Sheikh Hassani, speaking on behalf of the General Staff of the Iranian Armed Forces, praised the revival of the discipline and encouraged athletes to embody perseverance and honor in competition. “The weights you lift today are symbols of your will and discipline,” he said. “Each time you step onto the platform, you inherit a tradition that unites strength with dignity and determination.” He also thanked the organizers, referees, and volunteers, noting that sport is a bridge that brings hearts closer together.
Brigadier General Jamshid Fooladi highlighted the universal mission of CISM and the significance of the event for international cooperation among armed forces. “Today we gather to give life to CISM’s motto, Friendship through Sport,” he stated. “Competition is not only about victory but about bringing nations closer, creating trust, and promoting mutual understanding.” He invited guests to discover Babolsar, “a green jewel of northern Iran,” and to share in the hospitality and cultural richness of the region.
Colonel Reza Bagheri, representing CISM Headquarters, conveyed greetings and appreciation from the CISM President and Secretary General. “For nearly seven decades, since joining CISM in 1958, Iran has stood as one of the pillars of our global military sports family,” he said. “Weightlifting is a true reflection of military spirit, a sport of controlled power, endurance, and emotion without violence. In this championship, lift not only the barbell but also the spirit of unity.”
Competition began with the 60 kg and 65 kg categories, where DPR Korea took an early lead with two gold and two silver medals. Iran, Russia, and Uzbekistan followed closely, each earning bronze medals. The high level of competition and the professionalism of the athletes and referees reflected the quality and fairness that define CISM events.
Beyond the results, the 1st Military Weightlifting Challenge symbolized a revival of strength and solidarity within the military sports movement. The outstanding organization, hospitality, and enthusiasm of the Iranian Armed Forces ensured the success of this milestone event. CISM extends its sincere congratulations to the Armed Forces of the Islamic Republic of Iran, the Organizing Committee, and all participating nations for their remarkable contribution to this historic competition, a true celebration of unity, strength, and friendship among soldiers of the world.
(Source: CISM Media & Communication Department)
