The Kingdom of Bahrain is making rapid strides in its preparations to host the 3rd Asian Youth Games, scheduled from October 22 to 31, 2025. The recent sixth meeting of the Olympic Committee Board of Directors, chaired by His Highness Shaikh Khalid bin Hamad Al Khalifa, focused on evaluating the Kingdom’s readiness for this major international sporting event and bolstering initiatives to promote the nation’s sporting excellence.
At the outset, HH Shaikh Khalid extended a warm welcome to the Board members and lauded the significant achievements of Bahrain’s sports federations during the first half of 2025. He also noted the enduring legacy of the Bahrain Olympic Committee, reflecting on forty-six years of “many successes and contributions to sports in the Kingdom.”
A central focus of the discussions was the array of preparations for the Asian Youth Games. The meeting reviewed an administrative report for 2024 and mapped out plans for Bahrain’s international sports participation in 2025 and 2026. The Board underscored its commitment to ensure that local facilities and logistics are primed for welcoming young athletes from across the continent this October.
There was also significant emphasis on long-term goals, with an update on Bahrain’s strategies for the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games. HH Shaikh Khalid stressed the importance of “training athletes to compete at the highest level and focusing on new sports disciplines,” aiming to enhance Bahrain’s prospects for future medals.
Further, the Board reviewed progress on creating an International Center of Excellence and establishing a Regional Aquatic Sports Office through collaboration with GFH Financial Group. Reflections on the successful hosting of the recent FIBA Congress and Hall of Fame Ceremony underscored Bahrain’s emerging role as a hub for major international sporting events.
Updates from the Bahrain Olympic Academy highlighted ongoing educational and developmental programs. Shaikha Dr. Hessa bint Khalid Al Khalifa, Board Member and Chair of the Gender Equality Committee, was tasked with coordinating new certified administrative training programs with the International Olympic Academy, aiming to elevate the skill sets of sports administrators within local clubs and federations.
Key agenda items also included progress reports on the National Center for Sports Medicine and Rehabilitation and discussion of proposed modifications to the Committee’s administrative structure. The Board was briefed on preparations for hosting the prestigious Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) meetings, scheduled for November 10-14, 2025. Additionally, strategies for supporting Gulf candidates in international sports organizations and unveiling the new logo for the GCC Sports Arbitration Authority were discussed.
The session concluded with the endorsement of the 2024–2028 strategic plan by the Equality Committee, including its core vision, mission, and values. HH Shaikh Khalid extended his best wishes to the Committee, heralding continued progress in these pivotal areas.
As the countdown to the Asian Youth Games begins, Bahrain’s dedication and strategic planning place it firmly on track to deliver an unforgettable event for young athletes across Asia.
Team V.GG-LNK
