LAS VEGAS — The International Weightlifting Federation (IWF) named Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, as the host of the 2021 Junior World Championships at its first Executive Board meeting and Congress of 2019 here.

The Board agreed to launch an IWF Strategic Plan 2020–2024 to strengthen the IWF’s position in the global sport environment and the Olympic Movement. Its elaboration will be preceded by a wide consultation with member federations and other members of the weightlifting family to achieve an athlete-centered, sport-focused concept.

The Board welcomed the IOC initiative of a Refugee team for Tokyo 2020. It set the task of outlining the concept of Refugee athlete.

The Board also allocated the 2021 junior worlds to Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. This event will be of historic significance of more than one point of view: it will be the first World Championship and certainly the first to include women in Saudi Arabia. Tashkent, Uzbekistan — host of several recent World Championships — was voted as host of the 2021 IWF Youth World Championships.

With respect to Thailand’s multiple AAF’s and their potential consequences that seriously damage the integrity of the sport, Thai Amateur Weightlifting Association (TAWA) undertakes not to participate at any IWF events, including the qualification events and the 2020 Tokyo Olympic Games. The Board acknowledged TAWA’s undertaking.

TAWA still continues to fulfill its obligation and will deliver the organization of the 2019 IWF World Championships despite the fact that no Thai athletes will be entitled to participate.

A new member was entered into the Weightlifting Hall of Fame: Ing. Miguel Nino from Nicaragua was honored for his lifetime devotion and contributions to weightlifting. His condition not permitting personal appearance, the recognition was taken by his son.

Jose Quinones, IWF vice president and chairman of the development and education commission gave a report on the 2019 IWF Development Program and Olympic Solidarity.

An election of Technical Committee Member was held to replace Aleksandr Kurlovich, who passed away last April. From five candidates, Pedro Sanchez (Australia) recieved the highest number of votes, 37 from a total of 59 countries present and voting. — SG