Host City: How are the final preparations going for the upcoming IWF World Championships in Førde?
Mohammed Jalood: In less than a month, on 2 October, the world's best lifters will gather in Førde, Norway, for the 2025 IWF World Championships. Thanks to a great partnership with the Norwegian Weightlifting Federation and local authorities, we're in fantastic shape to provide an incredible experience for our athletes and fans. We have no doubt that it will be an amazing experience for everyone involved.
Host City: What will the city of Førde bring to this edition of the IWF World Championships?
Mohammed Jalood: Not only will Førde provide a picturesque backdrop of fjords, mountains, glaciers and forests, but there will be entertainment and activities for fans in the central square, providing a chance for families and weightlifting fans to enjoy a festival-like atmosphere during the competition.
Due to the geographical nature of Førde, these Championships will ensure short distances between venues, hotels, and entertainment for athletes, locals and visiting fans. We hope that will create a real community experience for all involved in the competition, where everyone feels a part of this sporting celebration.
Host City: Given Norway's recent success in weightlifting, how do you believe hosting these Championships in Førde will further inspire and develop the sport within Norway the region?
Mohammed Jalood: Solfrid Koanda’s incredible success at Paris 2024, entering the record books as the first woman from Norway to win Olympic weightlifting gold and the first European woman to win in a weight category above 80kg, has already inspired a whole new generation of lifters in Norway and throughout Scandinavia. The World Championships in Førde will no doubt build on this momentum, introducing our sport to new fans and increasing our engagement as we continue the exciting journey towards LA28.
Host City: Sustainability is a key focus for Førde and the IWF. Can you tell us more about the IWF’s sustainability strategy?
Mohammed Jalood: We recognise that, even as an indoor sport, we are not immune to the effects of climate change. The health of our planet is vital for our athletes' training and competitions. Therefore, we are dedicated to addressing this important issue head-on. In March 2024, we collaborated with Sporting Giants, our key partner for our Sustainability Strategy, to develop a comprehensive roadmap. This plan aims to unify our National Federations, our event organisers and the wider weightlifting community in a shared approach to environmental stewardship.
Host City: How is the IWF ensuring that all athletes have the best possible conditions and support to perform their best in Førde?
Mohammed Jalood: As well as providing a high standard of accommodation, we are working with the city to ensure a seamless, athlete-focused experience throughout the World Championships. By providing smooth and efficient transport between venues and hotels, the athletes can remain focused on competing at their best and putting on a world-class performance. As the International Federation with decades of major event experience, we are working hand-in-hand with Førde to ensure that we cater to the needs of all our lifters.
