Doha, September 09 (QNA) - President of the International Weightlifting Federation, Mohammed Jalood, praised the organizational and technical standards and strong start to the 10th FISU World University Weightlifting Championship - Doha 2026, saying the high level of competition on the opening day was comparable to that seen at major international events in the sport.

In a statement to the press, Jalood said there was strong cooperation among the Qatar Collegiate Sports Federation (QCSF), the International University Sports Federation (FISU) and the International Weightlifting Federation, which had contributed to the championship's successful opening day, provided an ideal environment for the participating men and women weightlifters, and ensured that the competition was staged in a manner befitting the event's stature.

He described Doha's hosting of the championship as an important step toward bringing weightlifting championships back to the university sports calendar, particularly after the university weightlifting championship was suspended following its 2018 edition and has now returned through Doha.

Jalood said the return of the championship was an important milestone in restoring its international momentum. He noted that the technical level of the participating weightlifters was high on the opening day, particularly with several athletes who have previously won medals at world championships taking part. Their participation, he said, adds significant sporting value to the event and raises the level of competition.

The IWF president also expressed his appreciation for Doha's capabilities and expertise in hosting major sporting events, as well as for providing the necessary technical and organizational resources. He underlined that Qatar has repeatedly demonstrated its ability to host sporting events to the highest organizational standards, and the World University Weightlifting Championship continues that strong tradition. (QNA)