On January 17, 2025, a videoconference was convened involving representatives from the Confederation of International Jeunesse Francophone (CIJF): Zeina Mina, Director; Nathalie Demarty, Program Officer; and Sarah Gaspard, Digital Communication Officer and Michel Raynaud, President of the French Weightlifting Federation, along with his role as Technical Delegate for weightlifting at 2027 Francophonie Games.
The primary agenda of the meeting was to discuss the weightlifting regulations for the upcoming Francophonie Games, scheduled to be held in Yerevan, Armenia, from July 24 to August 1, 2027. This 10th edition of the Francophonie Games represents a significant milestone, showcasing the event’s commitment to integrating diverse sporting disciplines, including weightlifting, for the first time in Games history.
Following the exemplary management of the weightlifting competitions at the recent Paris Olympic Games, which continues to resonate in our memories, and his key role in that organization, it was expected that Michel Raynaud would take on such a delicate responsibility for this significant weightlifting event.


The Jeux de la Francophonie is an esteemed international multi-sport and cultural event that promotes the richness and diversity of French-speaking cultures globally. Established in 1987, with the idea to combine sport competitions with cultural activities, organized Games every four years by the International Organization of La Francophonie (OIF). The inaugural Games were hosted in Morocco in 1989, with the most recent edition taking place in 2023 in Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo.
The Francophonie Games promote collaboration and solidarity among French-speaking countries, increasing mutual understanding and appreciation for cultural variety within the Francophonie community.

“The weightlifting competition at the Yerevan Games is expected to draw roughly 120 athletes. The particular number of body weight categories will be determined later. The weightlifting competition will be held in the Karen Demirchyan Sports and Concert Complex, a well-known weightlifting venue that hosted the European Championships in 2023. The Technical Delegate is responsible for proposing a full structure and regulations for the weightlifting events by June 2025” stated Michel Raynaud, recently appointed Technical delegate for the Francophonie Games.
EWF wishes smooth technical preparation for the competition and good sports results to participants of the 2027 Francophonie Games.