Exciting Line-Up for 2026 Fazza International Championships
In a significant announcement made by the Asian Paralympic Committee (APC), it was revealed that the 2026 Fazza International Championships for People of Determination will host an impressive 500 para athletes from 56 nations. This annual event, which serves as a Grand Prix season opener, promises to showcase some of the finest talent, including several Paralympic medallists.
Key Dates for Upcoming Championships
The Para Athletics Grand Prix is set to take place from February 10-13, 2026. Following that, the Fazza International Badminton Championships will be held from May 5-11, and the Fazza Para Archery Championships are scheduled for November 7-12, 2026. These competitions will not only highlight athletic prowess but also promote inclusivity and community engagement among People of Determination.
Inaugural Insights from the Organizing Committee
During a recent press conference outlining the event details, Thani Juma Berregad, the Chairman of the Organising Committee for the Fazza International Championships, emphasized the significance of these championships. Established in 2009 under the guidance of His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, the event aims to promote the integration of athletes with disabilities into mainstream society through sports.
“Dubai has evolved into an inspiring model for supporting People of Determination,” Berregad noted, highlighting the vital role of His Highness Sheikh Mansoor’s patronage, which has propelled the championships forward over the years.
Maintaining Standards of Excellence
Berregad also remarked on the notable timing of the Para Athletics Grand Prix, occurring just 60 days after the Dubai 2025 Asian Youth Para Games concluded. This proximity presents a unique challenge, as it places increased expectations on the organizing teams to uphold the high standards set during the previous event, which received accolades for its execution and spirit.
Empowerment through Sport
In his address, Majid Al-Usaimi, the Director of the Fazza International Championships for People of Determination, reinforced the idea that ongoing support from His Highness Sheikh Mansoor has been crucial in empowering athletes with disabilities. He stated that this support has inspired many to excel, innovate, and integrate seamlessly into their communities.
Al-Usaimi pointed out that the Fazza Championships have been a platform for countless inspiring stories, showcasing how sports transcend barriers and encourage transformative change.
Personal Accounts of Inspiration
Reflecting on the journey of athletes, Al-Usaimi shared a personal story from a shot putter competing in the women’s F34 category. “Through Fazza, we aim to prove our capabilities and overcome challenges to achieve our shared ambitions. It feels like only yesterday that I started competing in these championships in 2017, and I always look forward to my home championships,” the athlete expressed. This sentiment resonates with many who have witnessed the empowering nature of these prestigious competitions.
The Fazza International Championships not only exemplify the spirit of determination and resilience among para athletes but also serve as a reminder of the ongoing efforts to create a more inclusive society through sport. As the events approach, excitement continues to build around what promises to be a remarkable display of talent, tenacity, and inspiration from athletes around the globe.
