Doha: Qatar is preparing to host another major international sporting event as the 10th FISU World University Weightlifting Championship – Doha 2026 takes place from September 8 to 12.
Organized by the Qatar Collegiate Sports Federation under the umbrella of the International University Sports Federation (FISU), the championship will bring together athletes and university delegations from around the world.
The Doha edition carries particular significance as it marks the return of the championship for the first time since 2018, following a lengthy interruption caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and its impact on the international sporting calendar.
A total of 116 male and female weightlifters representing 21 countries from across the world will compete in eight weight categories for both men and women. The championship is expected to feature a high level of competition, with several participating student-athletes also competing internationally and representing their national teams at continental and world championships.
Competitions will be held at the Student Center in Education City, Doha, with organizers putting in place comprehensive arrangements designed to meet international standards and provide an ideal environment for athletes and participating delegations.
The championship will be the second global event organized by the Qatar Collegiate Sports Federation since its official establishment in 2023, following its hosting of a university 3x3 basketball championship. The event forms part of the Federation’s strategy to strengthen Qatar’s presence on the international university sports calendar and further consolidate the country’s position as a global sporting destination.
As part of the final preparations, the Organizing Committee will hold a press conference on Sunday to announce the latest technical and organizational details. Officials from the Qatar Collegiate Sports Federation and FISU, along with sustainability and sponsorship partners, are expected to attend.
The championship’s official opening ceremony will take place on Tuesday evening, marking the start of five days of competition to determine the 2026 world university champions.
The event is expected to attract significant media and spectator interest, with the detailed competition schedule and accompanying activities to be announced in due course.