In a landmark event that marks a new chapter for Egyptian and regional sports, the Sarah Samir International Weightlifting Hall was officially inaugurated in the Suez Canal Olympic Village in Ismailia. The prestigious opening ceremony took place on Sunday and witnessed the participation of top Egyptian officials and international sports leaders, highlighting the country’s growing role on the global Olympic stage.
The event was attended by Dr. Ashraf Sobhy, Egypt’s Minister of Youth and Sports, and Admiral Osama Rabie, Chairman of the Suez Canal Authority. Joining them was Olympic champion Sarah Samir, whose name the facility proudly bears. Their presence, alongside senior leadership from the Suez Canal Authority and local government officials, underscored the national significance of this new sporting complex. The ceremony also drew attention from the global weightlifting community, with prominent figures from the International, African, and Egyptian Weightlifting Federations in attendance, reflecting the importance of this development not just locally, but worldwide.
This state-of-the-art facility is a first-of-its-kind in Ismailia and represents a substantial investment in Egypt’s sports infrastructure. Built to comply with all international standards set by the International Weightlifting Federation (IWF), the hall is equipped to host elite training camps as well as regional and global competitions. Covering a total area of 1,000 square meters, the complex includes a 500-square-meter main lifting hall furnished with world-class equipment. The remaining space features modern administrative offices, changing rooms, athlete rest areas, and secure storage for gear — all designed to cater to professional athletes and national teams.
The inauguration was notable for the attendance of high-ranking international sports officials. Among them were Mohamed Jaloud, President of the International Weightlifting Federation, who led the delegation; Engineer Khaled Mehalhel, Vice President of the IWF and President of the African Weightlifting Federation; and Engineer Manar El-Din El-Shalli, Secretary-General of the African Weightlifting Federation. Also present was Mohamed Abdel Maksoud, President of the Egyptian Weightlifting Federation, accompanied by members of the federation’s board. Their collective presence signaled strong support for Egypt’s ambition to become a central hub for weightlifting excellence in Africa and the Middle East.
One of the most celebrated moments of the event was the official recognition of Sarah Samir, Egypt’s Olympic silver medalist and world champion, whose name now graces the facility. Dr. Ashraf Sobhy paid tribute to Samir in his keynote speech, calling her a “national treasure” and a source of inspiration for young athletes across Egypt. He described her achievements as a “symbol of determination, excellence, and Egyptian pride,” and noted that naming the hall after her was a fitting tribute to her legacy.
Minister Sobhy also commended the Suez Canal Authority for its proactive role in supporting national sports. He emphasized that Ismailia has long been known as a “factory of champions,” and that this new facility will help cultivate the next generation of Olympic-level talent. He expressed confidence that the hall would serve as a powerful tool in identifying, training, and supporting future weightlifting champions who will represent Egypt with distinction on the international stage.
Admiral Osama Rabie echoed these sentiments, expressing his pride in the Suez Canal Authority’s contribution to Egypt’s athletic development. He highlighted the organization’s commitment to its broader social responsibility, which includes strengthening community engagement through sports. Rabie stressed that the facility not only honors Sarah Samir’s accomplishments but also reinforces the authority’s role in building a sustainable and inclusive sports ecosystem in the region.
In an emotional address, Sarah Samir expressed her gratitude to both the Ministry of Youth and Sports and the Suez Canal Authority for their continued support of Egyptian athletes. She described the new hall as “a dream come true,” emphasizing its significance as one of the largest and most advanced weightlifting facilities in Egypt. Samir affirmed that the new space would have a transformational impact on the growth of the sport in Ismailia and across the country. With world-class equipment and international-grade design, the hall is ideally suited for hosting national teams, international delegations, and major tournaments.
The Sarah Samir International Weightlifting Hall is more than just a facility — it is a symbol of Egypt’s rising influence in global sports, particularly in Olympic disciplines. The project is a cornerstone in Egypt’s strategy to develop world-class athletes and attract international sports events. It is also a recognition of the remarkable athletes, like Sarah Samir, who have paved the way for future generations through their dedication and victories.
With its doors now open, the new hall stands as a beacon for young athletes and a powerful reminder that excellence is built through vision, investment, and community support. As Egypt continues to invest in sports infrastructure, this facility will play a central role in shaping the future of weightlifting in the country and across the region.
