Doha to host 2026 FISU World University Weightlifting Championship from September 8–12

Doha is set to host the 10th edition of the FISU World University Weightlifting Championship from September 8 to 12, 2026, with around 116 athletes representing 21 countries expected to take part.

The Organizing Committee confirmed that preparations have been completed for the championship, which will be held at Multaqa, Education City Student Center.

The event is being organised by the Qatar Collegiate Sports Federation (QCSF) under the auspices of the International University Sports Federation (FISU).

21 countries represented

Athletes from the following countries are set to compete:

Qatar, Azerbaijan, Bulgaria, Canada, Denmark, Ecuador, Spain, Finland, Great Britain, Hungary, Ireland, Iraq, Korea, Moldova, Poland, Puerto Rico, Romania, Sri Lanka, Slovakia, Chinese Taipei and the United States.

Training sessions for participating athletes will be held at Ezdan Palace Hotel.

Competition across 16 weight categories

The championship will feature eight men’s and eight women’s weight categories.

Men will compete in:

• 60kg
• 65kg
• 70kg
• 75kg
• 85kg
• 95kg
• 110kg
• Over 110kg

Women will compete in:

• 49kg
• 53kg
• 57kg
• 61kg
• 69kg
• 77kg
• 86kg
• Over 86kg

Competitions will take place in the Snatch and Clean & Jerk disciplines.

Championship returns after 2018 hiatus

The Doha edition is particularly significant as the World University Weightlifting Championship returns to the international calendar after a break dating back to 2018.

Organisers said hosting the event reflects Qatar’s commitment to developing university sport and strengthening its presence on the international sporting stage.

Dr Ibrahim bin Saleh Al Nuaimi, President of the Qatar Collegiate Sports Federation and Chairman of the Organizing Committee, said the event represents more than competition, highlighting its role in promoting fair play, communication and friendship among university athletes from different cultures.

Second major world event for QCSF

The championship will be the second world-level event hosted by the Qatar Collegiate Sports Federation since its official launch in 2023.

It follows the federation’s hosting of the FISU University World Cup 3x3 Basketball, reflecting its growing role in international university sport.

Organisers said preparations for the weightlifting championship have been carried out according to international standards to provide athletes and delegations with a high-quality sporting and organisational experience.

Rimal mascot brings Qatari identity to the event

The championship will also feature its official mascot, Rimal, designed to reflect Qatar’s environment, heritage and hospitality.

The event’s visual identity draws on themes of strength, balance and excellence, combining elements associated with weightlifting and Qatar’s national identity.

The championship runs from September 8 to 12 at Multaqa in Education City.

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