The 10th edition of the Francophone Games, scheduled to take place in July 2027 in Yerevan, Armenia, will mark a significant achievement as weightlifting is officially included for the first time in the program. Weightlifting, a national sport in Armenia, has been selected as one of three new sports for inclusion in these Games.
In preparation for this historic event, a delegation from the International Organization of La Francophonie (OIF) visited Armenia to evaluate the infrastructure and logistical requirements. Michel RAYNAUD, President of the International French-speaking Weightlifting Federation (FIFH) and IWF delegate for the event, as well as President of the French Weightlifting Federation, took part in this visit from March 25 to March 29, 2025.
The Karen Demirdjian Sports and Cultural Complex, which previously hosted the 2023 European Weightlifting Championships, will serve as the main venue for the weightlifting events. It has modern, efficient facilities, including a large auditorium with seating for up to 5,000 people. The stage and its equipment satisfy IWF standards.
A visit to the National Olympic Center has also been organized. It will serve as a training facility for participating athletes.
Official meetings were held with the Ministry of Sports and representatives from Armenia’s national federations. A separate meeting was held with the Armenian Weightlifting Federation leadership.
IWF regulations that will be in force from June 1, 2025, will be applied during competition, eight weight categories for both men and women (junior and senior). Each nation will be allowed to send a maximum of eight male and eight female athletes, junior or senior, with a maximum of two athletes per weight category. It plans to hold 4-5 days of events, preceded by two setup days and followed by one deconstruction day.
The Armenian Weightlifting Federation strongly proposes the implementation of an Even test. A comparable test was put up in Paris in 2023 for the 2024 Olympic Games, and we believe Michel RAYNAUD’s expertise will help to successfully complete such an event.
The preparatory visit confirmed that all necessary conditions exist to guarantee the smooth and effective introduction of weightlifting into the Francophone Games. The local authorities, FIFH, and OIF’s coordinated efforts demonstrate a strong preparation and commitment to generating a high-level event.
“The inclusion of weightlifting promises to add substantial value to the Games and reflects the shared commitment to youth development and international sporting excellence”, commented Michel RAYNAUD.