Minister of Youth and Sports Farid Gayibov shared his views on the recruitment of foreign athletes into national federations during a meeting with representatives of sports media.
According to İdman.Biz, Gayibov noted that this trend is not unique to Azerbaijan and is also common in other countries striving for high sporting achievements.
The minister emphasized that the primary goal remains the training and development of local athletes, and that, in a number of sports, positive results have already been achieved in reducing the number of foreign players. As an example, Farid Gayibov cited trampoline gymnastics.
At the same time, the head of the Ministry of Sports expressed concern about the situation in certain sports where athletes invited from abroad have continued to compete for many years.
He also added that federations continue to submit requests for the naturalization of foreign athletes. The main reason for this issue, he said, is the shortage of athletes in heavier weight categories, noting that in team sports the recruitment of foreign players is sometimes unavoidable.
The Minister of Youth and Sports stressed that he understands the need to invite foreign athletes in new sports, especially winter disciplines, but pointed out that the necessary conditions have already been created. He also noted that time is required for the full development of local athletes.
