Fares Ibrahim Set for 94kg Challenge at 2025 World Championships

Qatar’s Olympic champion Fares Ibrahim is preparing for a pivotal moment in his career as he readies himself for the 2025 World Weightlifting Championships in Volda, Norway, from October 1 to 10. This event will mark his debut in the 94kg weight category, a significant shift following the recent changes implemented by the International Weightlifting Federation (IWF).

The transition to the 94kg class is part of a strategic initiative aimed at early preparation for the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games, where this weight category will become officially recognized. Fares previously competed in the now-discontinued 102kg category, and after thorough analysis, he and his team have determined that the 94kg class aligns best with his physical attributes.

Strategic Move Backed by Experts

Jassim Ibrahim Al-Mansouri, Secretary General of the Qatar Weightlifting Federation (QWF) and a member of the IWF’s Development and Education Committee, highlighted that the decision to shift to the 94kg category stemmed from an in-depth assessment of Fares’ capabilities. This decision was made in close collaboration with his coach, Ibrahim Hassouna, and the technical team, who believe that this new category suits Fares’ natural build more effectively.

While the possibility of competing in the 110kg category was considered, Al-Mansouri emphasized that Fares’ physique is better adapted for the 94kg class. He acknowledged the intense competition expected in this new weight division but expressed confidence in Fares’ ability to adapt and compete strongly.

Although the 2025 World Championships will not serve as an official qualifying event for the Olympics, Al-Mansouri described it as a vital opportunity to evaluate Fares’ performance in this new category. The outcomes of this championship will play a crucial role in shaping a long-term strategy for the upcoming Olympic qualification process, which starts in November 2026 in China and concludes in Doha in December 2026.

Fares Ibrahim: A Trailblazer for Qatar

“We are counting on Fares Ibrahim not only because he is an Olympic and world champion but also because he exemplifies determination, discipline, and ambition,” Al-Mansouri stated. “We are fully committed to supporting him during this transition and ensuring he continues to raise Qatar’s flag at the highest levels.”

Fares made history as Qatar’s first Olympic gold medalist, securing the 96kg title at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics. As he embarks on this new chapter, all eyes will be on him as he competes in the 94kg category for the first time, setting the stage for his aspirations towards future Olympic success. With the backing of his federation and coaching team, Fares aims to make a strong impression at the world stage in October.