Kuwait city: Kuwait will participate in the sixth edition of the Islamic Solidarity Games, set to kick off next Friday in the Saudi capital, Riyadh, and continue until November 21, with a delegation of 65 athletes competing in 11 sports.
According to Kuwait News Agency, the Director of the Kuwaiti delegation and Director General of the Kuwait Olympic Committee, Retired Major General Mohammad Al-Khalfan, stated that Kuwaiti athletes will compete in athletics, triathlon, e-sports, jiu-jitsu, swimming, camel racing, fencing, weightlifting, karate, equestrian (show jumping), and handball.
Al-Khalfan emphasized that Kuwait's participation in the Islamic Solidarity Games reflects the Kuwait Olympic Committee's dedication to maintaining an active presence in regional, Arab, Asian, and Islamic sports events. This involvement aims to enhance sports interaction among the peoples of the Islamic world, contributing to mutual ties. He noted that this marks Kuwait's fourth participation since the Games' inception.
He further explained that the Kuwaiti teams have completed their preparations through intensive training programs and both domestic and overseas camps. These were organized by sports federations in coordination with the Kuwait Olympic Committee and the Public Authority for Sport. The delegation aims to achieve strong results, earn podium finishes, and win multiple medals for the country.
Al-Khalfan mentioned that the competition is expected to be competitive due to the large number of participating countries. However, the main goal is to maximize the athletes' technical experience and provide valuable exposure for different categories of players and female athletes, representing Kuwait in international events.
He stressed that Kuwait's participation in the Islamic Solidarity Games is vital, as it helps athletes gain experience, enhance performance, and prepare for upcoming Gulf, Arab, Asian, and international championships.
Kuwait's first appearance in the Islamic Solidarity Games was in Makkah, Saudi Arabia, in 2005, where it won 10 medals. This was followed by participation in Indonesia (2013) with 8 medals, and Konya, Turkiye (2022) where Kuwait secured 9 medals. Overall, Kuwaiti athletes have claimed 27 medals in the history of the Games, showcasing the country's sporting presence and readiness to continue achieving success in Riyadh 2025.
The Islamic Solidarity Games are considered the third-largest multi-sport event after the Olympic Games and the Asian Games. They serve as a significant platform that embodies the spirit of unity and competition among over 3,000 athletes from 57 countries, competing across 23 individual and team sports.