Doha to host 2026 FISU World University Weightlifting Championship

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February 16, 2026
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16-February-2026

Doha to host 2026 FISU World University Weightlifting Championship

Doha:  Qatar will host the 10th edition of the World University Weightlifting Championship – Doha 2026 from 8 to 12 September, under the umbrella of International University Sports Federation (FISU), with wide participation from federations and universities around the world.

The Doha edition carries particular significance, as the last championship was held in 2018 before the event was suspended due to the COVID-19 pandemic, which impacted the global sports calendar for several years. The tournament’s return in Doha confirms the resumption of this important international event within the global university sports agenda.

More than 200 male and female athletes are expected to compete across eight weight categories for both men and women in what promises to be a highly competitive and exciting championship. Several participants compete internationally and represent their national teams at continental and world championships, reflecting the high technical level anticipated at the event.

Competitions will take place at the Student Center Hall in Education City, Doha, within a fully integrated organizational framework that meets the highest international standards and provides an ideal technical and operational environment for athletes and delegations.

The championship marks the second global event organized by the Qatar University Sports Federation since its official launch in 2023, following its hosting of the FISU 3x3 University Basketball Championship. The event forms part of a clear strategy aimed at strengthening Qatar’s presence on the international university sports map and reinforcing its status as a global sporting hub.

In this context, H.E. Dr. Ibrahim bin Saleh Al Nuaimi, President of the Qatar University Sports Federation, stated that hosting the 10th edition of the championship represents an important milestone in the federation’s journey and reflects the growing international confidence in Qatar’s organizational capabilities. He added that the event aligns with the federation’s vision to support university sport and expand opportunities for student-athletes to compete at the highest levels.

For his part, Rashid Saeed Al Odaiba, Secretary-General of the federation, confirmed that preparations are progressing in accordance with a comprehensive organizational and media plan aimed at delivering an exceptional edition that reflects Qatar’s modern image and highlights university sport as a key platform for discovering and developing young talent.

The championship is expected to attract significant media and public attention, with the detailed competition schedule and accompanying activities to be announced in due course.