LA 2028: Uzbekistan sets goal to join Olympic top 10 in medal tally

SPORT 17:30 111

During the video conference meeting chaired by the president, the focus was on strengthening preparations for both the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games and advancing mass sports to a new level.

The president stressed that all responsible officials, from department heads to district governors, must work diligently toward this objective.

It was also highlighted that sports should not merely be seen as games and competitions but as a powerful tool to showcase the nation's genetic heritage, strength, and global reputation. He emphasized that this is the first time such a comprehensive meeting has been held to discuss preparations for the Olympic and Paralympic Games.

The president also pointed out that Uzbekistan should not become complacent with the results achieved in Paris.

It was noted that Uzbekistan's Olympic history has primarily been shaped by individual sports. At the most recent Olympics, medals were earned in only five sports: boxing, judo, taekwondo, weightlifting, and freestyle wrestling.

It was further noted that while each sports federation has appointed ministers and leaders of national organizations, the effectiveness of some has not fully aligned with the existing potential.

The slow pace of engaging with athletes and coaches during visits to regions, districts, and neighborhoods, addressing their concerns, collaborating with foreign or international federation leaders, and sending athletes and coaches to training camps was also criticized.

It is worth mentioning that the Uzbek delegation achieved a record 13 medals (8 gold, 2 silver, and 3 bronze) at the 2024 Paris Olympics, securing 13th place in the overall medal standings. This is considered the best performance in the country's Olympic history.

The previous best result by Uzbek Olympians was recorded at the 2016 Rio de Janeiro Olympics, where the team won 13 medals (4 gold, 2 silver, and 7 bronze), finishing in 21st place.

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