International Sambo Federation (FIAS) receives permanent recognition by IOC

The International Sambo Federation (FIAS) was granted permanent recognition by the International Olympic Committee (IOC). Such decision was taken at the IOC session held today in Tokyo on the eve of the Olympic Games starting there on July 23.

Here is how FIAS President Vasily Shestakov commented on the historical event, quoted by the official website of this organization:

- Today, sambo wrestlers have reason to rejoice. Three years ago FIAS received temporary recognition from the IOC, and during that period we had to prove to the world and ourselves that we were worthy of more. The period coincided with the difficult situation, global COVID-19 pandemic, which affected all spheres of life, including arrangement and holding of sports and public events. Still we have learned to work in adverse environment, to overcome many restrictions, and to hold international tournaments in extraordinary conditions. At first, the mission seemed impossible; nevertheless, by joint efforts we have managed to cope with it. It became possible mainly owing to well-coordinated work of national and continental sambo federations, and, of course, due to support of our general partner, “Rosneft”.

More and more countries are welcoming our sport, sambo competitions are broadcast by TV companies in 68 countries, including the flagship sport broadcaster Eurosport, and the most prominent sambo wrestlers are known across the world. We are grateful to the International Olympic Committee for the high appreciation of our work and for the attention it pays to our sport. Today we have made another big step on the way to our cherished dream – including sambo in the Olympic Games program. I congratulate sambo wrestlers worldwide on this historic event!

Photo: official website of FIAS

Video of Vasily Shestakov's full speech (also provided by FIAS)