Ahmedabad will host the 2026 Asian Weightlifting Championships from April 1 to 10. This big sports event was confirmed by the Indian Weightlifting Federation. It will be the first Asian Championship to follow the new weight categories set by the international Weightlifting Federation. The event was earlier planned in Gandhinagar but later shifted to Ahmedabad.
Hosting Rights Given to India
India was given the opportunity to host this championship by the Asian Weightlifting Federation (AWF). The decision was made last year during the AWF’s annual meetings. This is a proud moment for India, as it shows the country’s growing importance in the world of sports.
Change of Venue from Gandhinagar to Ahmedabad
At first, the championship was supported to happen in Gandhinagar, another city in Gujarat. But later, the location was changed to Ahmedabad, which already has better sports facilities and is becoming a major sports hub in India.
New Weight Categories will be Used
This championship is also special because it will be the first time Asian Weightlifting Championships are held under the new weight categories introduced by the International Weightlifting Federation (IWF). This means the rules and weight divisions for athletes have been updated.
Ahmedabad to Host Two Big Weightlifting Events
In addition to the Asian Championships in April 2026, Ahmedabad will also host the Commonwealth Weightlifting Championships in August of the same year. This shows that the city is becoming an important place for international weightlifting competitions.
Gujarat’s Focus on Sports Infrastructure
The Gujarat government is working hard to improve sports facilities in Ahmedabad. One of the reasons is to prepare for a bigger dream – hosting the 2036 Olympic Games. This means the state is building new stadiums and improving existing ones.
India Bids for 2030 Commonwealth Games
India has also officially submitted a bid to host the 2030 Commonwealth Games in Ahmedabad. If this bid is successful, it will be another huge international event for the city and the country.