"April was marked by a series of significant events in our country, including sporting activities that once again showcased Azerbaijan’s growing influence in the international sports arena. Notably, Khankendi – a city that symbolizes our sovereignty – warmly welcomed athletes for the second time this year."
Minister of Youth and Sports Farid Gayibov shared these remarks while reviewing the past month’s key developments, Idman.biz reports.
Highlighting the success of the 2nd Khankendi Ultramarathon, the Minister noted that this year’s race covered a distance of 192 kilometers, starting from our “Sports Capital,” Gabala, and concluding in Khankendi. “We welcomed the participants in the city square and congratulated the winners. It’s worth noting that Khankendi is also one of the seven host cities for the upcoming 3rd CIS Games. As part of preparations, the city’s stadium is currently undergoing reconstruction,” he said.
Gayibov also visited sports facilities across the country that are being prepared for the Games, including the under-construction Yevlakh Olympic Sports Complex, the Ganja City Stadium, and renovated Olympic complexes in Gabala, Sheki, and Goygol, as well as the Kur Olympic Training Center in Mingachevir. Discussions were held to ensure that all construction and renovation works are completed on time and to the highest standard. Additionally, a new judo hall equipped with modern facilities was inaugurated at the Terter Olympic Sports Complex.
With less than five months left until the CIS Games, the Minister announced the launch of the official mascots “Panther” and “Leyla,” along with the Games’ official website. “I believe this event will once again demonstrate our country’s organizational capabilities,” he stated.
Farid Gayibov also revealed a major upcoming milestone for Baku: for the first time, Azerbaijan will host a renowned UFC event. Scheduled for June 21 at the Baku Crystal Hall, the fight night will be jointly organized by the Ministry of Youth and Sports and Baku City Circuit Operations Company. An agreement on this cooperation was signed with UFC President and CEO Dana White in Miami. “This marks Azerbaijan’s emergence as a regional sports leader. Thanks to President Ilham Aliyev’s successful sports policy, Azerbaijan is now recognized globally as a sporting nation. Our partnership with UFC will further strengthen our position as an international sports hub. Let me also remind you that Baku has been named the World Sports Capital for 2026,” he added.
Throughout April, Azerbaijan hosted numerous high-profile competitions, including the traditional “Great Silk Road” international boxing tournament, the Artistic Gymnastics World and European Cups, the Battle of Champions chess tournament, and the Baku Open – 2025 International Chess Festival. “These events are a reflection of the global sports community’s growing trust in Azerbaijan and our professional organizational capabilities. Importantly, major competitions are now being successfully held not only in Baku but also across the regions,” the Minister noted.
He highlighted the increasing scale of the “President’s Cup – 2025” international regatta, dedicated to the 102nd anniversary of National Leader Heydar Aliyev’s birth. The regatta extended to Terter (Sugovushan) in addition to Mingachevir, and special activities were also organized for residents in Kondalanchay (Fuzuli district) as part of the event.
Azerbaijani athletes achieved remarkable success on the international stage. For the first time in history, both male and female acrobatic gymnasts won medals at the European Championships. National teams in Greco-Roman and freestyle wrestling were crowned continental champions, while Azerbaijani judokas returned from the European Championship with five medals. In weightlifting, Isa Rustamov earned a complete medal set despite being the country’s sole representative.
Minister Gayibov also emphasized Azerbaijan’s record participation at the Gymnasiade held in Serbia, with 291 young athletes competing and securing a total of 85 medals. “This competition not only helped our youth gain valuable experience in multi-sport events but also served as excellent preparation for the upcoming CIS Games,” he said. He had the opportunity to meet with the athletes, listen to their experiences, and noted that such meetings provide strong motivation for future competitions.
The Minister also held meetings with the newly elected leadership of the Special Olympics Committee, athletes with special needs, and professionals in the field to discuss upcoming plans. He participated in the opening ceremony of the “Shining Suns” sports event, organized for children with special needs. “These events are vital for children to showcase their abilities and better integrate into society,” he said.
Throughout April, Farid Gayibov engaged in productive meetings with several international sports leaders, including António Silva (President of the European Swimming League), Roko Sikirić (President of the European Volleyball Confederation), Andreas Zagklis (FIBA Secretary General), Adam Kosa (President of the International Committee of Sports for the Deaf), Losif Stavrakakis (President of the European Deaf Sports Organization), and Rogério Valério (President of the FIG Gymnastics for All Committee). These meetings focused on strengthening cooperation and exploring development opportunities.
Furthermore, Taleh Ziyadov, President of the Azerbaijan Badminton Federation, was elected to the World Badminton Federation Council from Europe – the first Azerbaijani to join the organization’s leadership. The Azerbaijan Equestrian Federation was honored by the World Ethnosport Confederation for its contributions to the development of ethnosports. Minister Gayibov extended his congratulations to both federations on these achievements.
“In summary, April was yet another productive month. The progress made and milestones achieved lay the foundation for even greater victories. I believe that continued investment in sport and youth development will lead Azerbaijan to new heights,” Gayibov concluded.
Idman.biz
