President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, during a video conference meeting on February 13, set a target for Uzbekistan: to secure a place in the top ten rankings at the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles. To achieve this goal, the president emphasized the need for enhanced training, development of sports federations, and greater participation across various sports disciplines.
“Sports are the pillars of a healthy nation and a healthy generation,” the presidential statement read, stressing the importance of physical education and sports in shaping a strong and prosperous future for the nation.
The country’s commitment to advancing its sports sector is reflected in significant investments, with the sports budget increasing from UZS 1.5 trillion ($115mn) to UZS 3 trillion ($230mn) over the past four years. In addition, salaries for coaches have doubled, and 101 new sports facilities have been built, with 67 more undergoing reconstruction.
Uzbekistan’s athletes have already shown their potential on the global stage, with notable achievements at the Paris Olympics. However, to achieve a top-ten finish at the 2028 Games, the country must focus on strengthening training systems and nurturing young talent through its national sports federations.
One of the key issues discussed was the low number of licensed athletes in several Olympic sports. For example, at the last Olympic Games, only five out of 48 athletics programs were licensed, and just four out of 49 aquatics programs. Regions such as Karakalpakstan, Jizzakh, and Kashkadarya also faced poor results, signaling the need for a more robust talent identification system.
As part of the reforms, new regional branches of the National Olympic Committee will be established, with regional governors taking on leadership roles. These branches will collaborate with sports federations to develop comprehensive strategies for Olympic preparation. The government is allocating UZS 300bn ($23mn) to improve sports infrastructure and provide necessary resources.
A focus on youth development is also central to these efforts. Over 300 sports schools will serve as selection bases for national teams, with Olympic sports competitions, such as the “Olympic Peaks of New Uzbekistan,” being held twice a year. Winners will receive valuable prizes like homes and cars, while top performers will have the opportunity to join the Republican Olympic and Paralympic Center.
The president also stressed the importance of expanding parasports. Since the introduction of parasports clubs, the number of schools offering such programs has increased from 33 to 235, with participation growing fourfold. To further promote inclusivity, new partnerships will develop specialized training methods for athletes with disabilities, and parasports competitions will be held alongside major Olympic events.
Moreover, the private sector will be given a larger role in sports development, with new opportunities for private sports clubs and coaches to operate independently. These clubs will also be able to participate in national competitions, based on their athletes’ performances.
To ensure the continued growth of Uzbekistan's sports sector, digitalization will be integrated into the athlete selection, training, and performance tracking processes. Mass sports participation will be promoted nationwide, with neighborhoods encouraged to organize physical activity events. Schools will introduce Olympic sports clubs, and outstanding physical education teachers will be recognized and rewarded.
The president concluded by stressing the importance of a holistic approach to health, combining physical activity with proper nutrition. With a significant portion of the population not meeting the required activity or nutrition standards, the government aims to promote a nationwide movement for healthier living, ensuring that every family is part of this transformation.
Best Olympic Result
At the Paris 2024 Olympics, Uzbekistan made its debut in football, archery, diving, and women's wrestling. The nation secured 13 medals—8 gold, 2 silver, and 3 bronze—achieving its best Olympic result by ranking 13th overall, a significant leap from 21st place at Rio 2016.
Uzbekistan also led among CIS, Central Asian, and Turkish nations, finishing fourth in Asia behind China, Japan, and South Korea. The country outperformed regional competitors like Azerbaijan (2+2+3) and Kazakhstan (1+3+3), while Russia and Belarus did not participate.
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