Full Breakdown
Australia and Iran Shine at the 2025 World Para Powerlifting Championships
10/11/2025, 12:16:02 PM
Overview of the Championships
The 2025 World Para Powerlifting Championships, taking place in Cairo from October 9 to 18, marks a significant milestone as it is the first time the event is hosted in Africa. This year’s championships feature approximately 650 athletes from 72 countries, making it the largest event of its kind. The competition includes a diverse range of weight classes and showcases both junior and senior categories.
Australian Team Ambitions
Australian Para-powerlifting star Hani Watson, known as the "Bench Queen," leads a record 14 athletes representing Australia at the championships. Watson aims to secure a medal, stating, “I’m going to knock a few people off that podium.” She emphasizes the importance of positivity and teamwork, encouraging her fellow athletes to manifest confidence as they compete. The Australian team is eager to achieve three successful lifts across the board, reflecting their commitment to excellence.
Iranian Athletes' Success
Iran has made a notable impact at the championships, with athletes like Mani Saeidi and Atiyeh Sadat Hosseini securing gold medals. Saeidi won gold in the junior division, lifting a total of 172 kg in the 88 kg category, while Hosseini achieved a historic victory in the women’s 61 kg category with a total lift of 175 kg. This win marks Iran's first-ever women’s gold medal in world para powerlifting, highlighting a significant achievement for Iranian women in sports.
Opening Ceremony Highlights
The opening ceremony, attended by Egypt's Minister of Youth and Sports Ashraf Sobhi, celebrated the event's significance. Sobhi expressed gratitude to President Abdel Fattah El Sisi for his support of Egyptian sports and Paralympic athletes. The minister noted that Egypt is fielding its largest-ever delegation, with 54 athletes participating, and praised the country’s capabilities in hosting major international sporting events.
Competition Format and Schedule
The championships began with the Rookie & Next Gen events, featuring 120 young athletes, and will transition to elite competitions from October 11 to 18. The event will conclude with team competitions and an awards ceremony on October 18. The structure allows for intense rivalries and showcases the future of para powerlifting.
Criticism & Opposition
While the championships have been celebrated for their scale and organization, some critics have raised concerns about accessibility and support for athletes with disabilities in various regions. These issues highlight the ongoing challenges faced by para-athletes globally.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I’m going to knock a few people off that podium.” — Hani Watson, Australian Para-powerlifting athlete.
- “This is my third worlds now, so I’m becoming a veteran,” — Hani Watson.
- “I competed at a World Cup event in Thailand last year and my personal best at that stage was 153,” — Dylan Braan, Australian athlete.
- “It’s a great feeling to win the gold with a new world record.” — Gergo Szebenyi, Hungarian athlete.
The 2025 World Para Powerlifting Championships not only showcases the strength and determination of athletes but also serves as a platform for promoting inclusivity and excellence in sports.
