Robyn Smith OAM Re-Elected to IPC Governing Board: A Respected Global Leader Strengthening the Future of Inclusive Sport

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Virtus proudly announces that its President, Robyn Smith OAM, has been re-elected to the International Paralympic Committee (IPC) Governing Board as a Member-at-Large — reaffirming her position as one of the world’s most respected leaders in inclusive sport and athlete advocacy.

Smith’s re-election comes shortly after she made history as the first female President of Virtus, marking a defining moment for global inclusion. With more than 35 years of service in sport, governance and international development, Smith continues to lead with integrity, courage, and a deep commitment to ensuring that inclusion for all is delivered with humanity at heart.

Smith’s continued presence on the IPC Governing Board ensures that athletes with an intellectual impairment — one of the most under-represented groups in global sport — remain visible and valued at the highest levels of Paralympic decision-making.

Robyn Smith Reflects on Her Re-Election

“It is an honour to be re-elected to the IPC Governing Board. I learnt so much during my first term, and I look forward to the next four years working to strengthen opportunity, representation, and recognition for athletes with an intellectual impairment. We must remember that everything we do is built on the foundations laid by those before us. Their legacy drives us forward.”

Smith added: “I am grateful to Virtus for nominating me and to the Board and staff, as well as Sport Inclusion Australia for their continued support. Thank you also to all the IPC members that voted for me. Together, we will keep building a Paralympic movement that is inclusive, fair and globally representative.”

A Complex Election Demanding Resilience

This year’s IPC election process was uniquely challenging. Elections scheduled at the IPC General Assembly in Korea in September were postponed due to technical difficulties and rescheduled to a virtual meeting on 20 November.

Smith’s re-election through this extended process demonstrates strong global confidence in her leadership and experience.

Strategic Alignment With Brisbane 2032

Smith also serves on the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games Organising Committee, where she contributes to long-term legacy, inclusion, and athlete pathway planning leading into the next decade of global sport.

The Virtus and the global family celebrates with Robyn Smith and congratulates the other seven Member at Large Board Members. Read the IPC statement here:

Smith is a leader of immense integrity, vision, and global respect. Her re-election to the IPC Governing Board reflects the trust the international community places in her ability to advance inclusion—not just for athletes with an intellectual impairment, but across the entire Paralympic Movement. She leads with empathy, courage and a relentless commitment to fairness. Virtus is proud to stand beside her.

Virtus Launches ‘Athlete Council’ With Lenine Cunha Being Appointed As Chair At Cairo

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For many years, Virtus has engaged directly with athletes at events around the world — listening to their ideas, experiences, and aspirations. Now, we are taking a bold step forward to ensure that athletes remain at the very heart of everything we do.

At the 2025 Virtus General Assembly in Cairo, Egypt, history was made with the official announcement of the Virtus Athletes’ Council — a new body dedicated to strengthening athlete representation and voice within the organisation.

Recognising his exceptional achievements and leadership, the Virtus Governing Board has appointed Virtus Ambassador and IPC Athletes’ Council member, Lenine Cunha of Portugal, as the Chair of the Virtus Athletes’ Council.

Lenine is widely known for his remarkable sporting career and lifelong advocacy for athletes with an intellectual impairment. Over more than three decades of competition, he has earned an extraordinary 261 international medals across Virtus and Paralympic events — a testament to his talent, perseverance, and passion for inclusive sport.

The newly elected Virtus Athletes’ Council Chair, Lenine Cunha, gave a Keynote Speech and announced the launch of the council.

“It is with great pride that I stand here today — not only as a Paralympic athlete, but as someone who truly believes in the transformative power of sport. Over the past years — and especially this last one —I’ve had the privilege of serving on the International Paralympic Athletes’ Council. It has been an intense, inspiring, and deeply meaningful experience. I want to take this moment to express my sincere gratitude to Virtus for selecting me to join the International Paralympic Athletes’ Council. It is an honour to represent and contribute to the development of Paralympic sport at a global level.”

Lenine Cunha launching the Virtus Athlete Council in Cairo. Photo Credit: Lenine Cunha

He dedicated his achievement of being elected to the IPC’s Council to the Virtus family and urged them to ‘fight for greater inclusion, opportunities, and recognition for athletes around the world.’

“I have learned that Paralympic sport is about much more than competition. It is about giving a voice to those who are too often unheard. It is about opening doors where there used to be walls.”

“And for me, that mission has a very special face: The face of athletes with intellectual disabilities.”

He spoke passionately about advocating for athletes with intellectual disabilities, sharing:

“This past year, I have worked every single day to ensure that these athletes are seen, respected, and included fairly. I’ve worked to make sure their talent and dedication are recognised — not just every four years — but every day: on the tracks, in the fields, in the pools, and in the decisions that shape the future of the Paralympic Movement.”

Acknowledging the challenges, he noted that while progress can be slow, every moment when an athlete feels truly heard reinforces that the movement is on the right path.

“Being part of the Council taught me that true inclusion is not just a beautiful word — it’s constant action. It’s fighting to make sure that everyone has equal opportunities, regardless of the type of disability. And it’s reminding the world that sport, above all, is a space of dignity, courage, and hope.”

Lenine concluded with a heartfelt message to his fellow athletes:

“I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to represent athletes with intellectual disabilities. They are living proof that talent has no limits — that strength is not only measured in results, but in the ability to persist, believe, and inspire. To all Paralympic athletes, especially to athletes with intellectual disabilities, I want to say this — from the bottom of my heart: You are the reason I never stop fighting. Your value is infinite. And the future — your future — is bright.

“A Paralympic athlete, advocate and sometimes a coach from Portugal”.

Every competition is more than a fight for results; it’s a celebration of strength, perseverance, and the true spirit of Paralympic sport”.

Lenine was joined remotely by the other members of the new Virtus Athletes’ Council:

  1. Haleigh Bates (II3) from the United States of America.
  2. Dimitrios Arapoglou (II1) from Greece.
  3. Madeleine McTernan (II1) from Australia.

The Virtus Council Members will serve on the council for 4 years and may serve up to two consecutive terms. However, in this first council, members will serve until Global Games 2027.

Through the council, athletes will now be able to share their ideas, help shape Virtus’ strategic plans, and make sure Virtus stays focused on athletes.

Virtus is delighted to have this new direct access to the voices of athletes and looks forward to hearing and taking forward their contributions.

Robyn Smith OAM Elected First Female President of Virtus — A New Era for Global Inclusion in Sport

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Virtus – the International Sport Federation for Athletes with an Intellectual Impairment – has elected Robyn Smith OAM as its first female President, marking a historic milestone for global sport inclusion and leadership diversity.

Ms Smith, who has worked in the inclusion movement since 1989, was elected during the 2025 Virtus General Assembly in Cairo, Egypt, where Virtus Members from all five regions gathered to shape the future of the organisation towards its 40-year anniversary and celebrate its remarkable history of advancing inclusion through sport.

Addressing the Virtus members at the 2025 Virtus General Assembly after being elected as Virtus President, Robyn Smith OAM said,

⁠“It is a huge honour and a humbling moment to be elected President,” said Smith in her acceptance speech. “I have been privileged to work in this field since the early days of INAS-FMH and to meet and learn from all our past Presidents. Today, to stand here as the first female President of Virtus is both an honour and a responsibility.”

Ms Smith paid tribute to her predecessors – Hans Lindstrom, Bernard Atha, Bob Price, Amaury Russo, and Marc Truffaut – as well as to Marie Little, a founding Board member of INAS-FMH, who mentored her as a young woman and inspired her belief that gender should never be a barrier to leadership.

⁠“Marie had a huge passion for the power of sport to improve lives. She taught me that we must focus on the person first – on strength and ability rather than labels. She would be immensely proud to see how far Virtus has come,” Smith reflected.

As CEO of Sport Inclusion Australia since 1991, Smith has been instrumental in growing Virtus’ global reach and strengthening its partnership with the International Paralympic Committee. Under her leadership, Virtus has welcomed new members through social impact programs delivered across Asia, the Pacific, the Middle East, and Latin America.

Looking to the future, Ms Smith outlined her goals for Virtus:

  • Growing membership to 150 nations, particularly across Africa, Oceania, Central Asia, and the Caribbean.
  • Expanding athlete pathways in collaboration with international federations to ensure every sport includes Virtus athletes.
  • Supporting new countries to bid for Virtus events and building the next generation of athlete leaders.
  • Strengthening the eligibility system to ensure fairness, integrity, and global consistency.

⁠“Virtus is a family bound by passion for our athletes,” Smith said.

“It doesn’t matter where we come from or what language we speak – their progress drives us to give them the best possible opportunities. Our role is to ensure every athlete is seen, heard, and included.”

Ms. Smith also thanked outgoing President Marc Truffaut and Secretary General Barry Holman for their leadership and dedication, acknowledging their contributions to Virtus’ growth and governance.

She extended her gratitude to other retiring Board colleagues, including Amal Mobadda (Egypt), Patrick Chan (Hong Kong), Birol Aydin (Turkey), and Helen Croxford (Australia), for their commitment to advancing inclusion worldwide.

⁠“We stand on the shoulders of those who came before us,” Smith concluded.

“I will do my very best to make them proud and to ensure Virtus continues to grow, inspire, and lead the global movement for inclusion through sport.”

Ms Smith closed the Assembly with a heartfelt and emotional inauguration speech, thanking the member organisations and staff, and affirming her determination and commitment toward progress.

Virtus General Assembly 2025: New Leadership Elected in Cairo

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The 2025 Virtus General Assembly, held in Cairo, Egypt, marked an important moment in the organisation’s history with the election of a new Governing Board.

Robyn Smith OAM from Australia was elected as the first-ever female President of Virtus, following her distinguished service as Vice-President. Her election represents a significant step forward in Virtus’ ongoing commitment to inclusion and leadership diversity.

After eight years as President, Marc Truffaut concluded his successful tenure. In his final address, he reflected on Virtus’ major achievements under his leadership — including the launch of the Virtus Academy, the creation of the Virtus International Basketball Federation (VIBF), and the strengthening of partnerships with the Paralympic Movement.

Robyn Smith felicitating previous Governing Board members. (L-R): Ian Conyers (USA), Robyn Smith (AUS), Birol Aydin (TUR), Patric Chan (HKG), Amal Mobadda (EGY), Marc Truffaut (FRA), Helen Croxford (AUS), Barry Holman (USA), Prof Jan Burns (GBR)

Truffaut also highlighted one of Virtus’ proudest milestones: the election of Lenine Cunha to the IPC Athletes’ Council.

“His presence there is a historic symbol of recognition and respect for athletes with intellectual impairment. It is proof that Virtus athletes now have a voice at the heart of the Paralympic Movement. Eight years ago, this was only a dream. Today, it is a global reality. What unites us is more than sport. It’s a shared belief in dignity, respect, and opportunity. Virtus is not just a federation — it is a family. A family that believes that talent, commitment, and courage define an athlete — not a diagnosis. That is our legacy.”

New Vice-President from Central Asia

Dina Temirgaliyeva of Kazakhstan was elected as the new Vice-President of Virtus. Her appointment marks a new chapter of regional growth and inclusion, particularly for nations across Central Asia.

In her address to members, she said:

“Being elected Vice President of Virtus is a great honour and responsibility — not just for me personally, but for the entire team in Kazakhstan. Our journey with Virtus began three years ago with one important meeting — and since then, it has changed many lives, including mine. Together with our athletes, coaches, volunteers, and national partners, we have made meaningful progress: three international championships held in Kazakhstan, legal reforms to support athletes with intellectual impairments, and growing visibility of inclusion in our country.”

Temirgaliyeva expressed her gratitude to Virtus members for their confidence:

“I want to thank all Virtus members for their trust. This is a shared result — and it motivates me to continue working with passion, commitment and care. My goal is to bring more countries to the Virtus family, particularly from Central Asia, to build strong global partnerships, and to make sure that more II-athletes have access to opportunities and recognition they truly deserve.”

She also congratulated the newly elected President:

“I sincerely congratulate Robyn Smith on being elected as the first woman President of Virtus. I look forward to supporting her strong and inspiring leadership as we enter a new chapter together.”

New Secretary General Elected

With Barry Holman’s tenure as Secretary General concluding, the position was also open for election. Yossi Romano from Israel was elected as the new Secretary General of Virtus.

In his message, he said:

“Dear Virtus members, your vote of confidence has just reached me back in my country. I’m honoured to take the role of Secretary General of our organisation. Like many of you who are professionally and voluntarily involved in Virtus, I know that the board is expected to lead and develop the organisation — both in the number of athletes and in the quality of representation and service we provide. I congratulate all my fellow board members for their election and look forward to fulfilling our obligations to the members and athletes.”

Regional Board Representatives

Several regional seats were also contested in this election cycle.

From Virtus Americas, Miguel Caraballo from Puerto Rico was elected to represent the region on the Governing Board.

“First and foremost, I thank God for the opportunity to serve others from different platforms, and I trust that my time on the Virtus Sport board will be no exception. The Americas will have my commitment and support for the benefit of athletes with disabilities and every country in my hemisphere,” Miguel told Virtus.

Virtus Europe will now be represented by Catherine Fayollet (France) and Javier Gutierrez (Spain).

“I am very honoured to join this community. I look forward to working with our global family to promote excellence and ensure that every athlete has the opportunity to reach their full potential – proving every day that sport has no limits, only possibilities,” said Javier Gutierrez

In addition, Rana Mohamed Nabih Abdelfattah Gamal from Egypt was elected to represent the African region.

Rana shared her vision for Virtus Africa:

“I am deeply passionate about the role of sport in creating inclusion, empowerment, and social change. For more than two decades, I have been working in Egypt to drive change, and I will dedicate my expertise and network to advancing the growth of Virtus Africa and ensuring that athletes with intellectual impairment are empowered to achieve their full potential.”

She continued:

“First and foremost, I thank God for the opportunity to serve others from different platforms, and I trust that my time on the Virtus Sport Board will be no exception. The Americas will have my commitment and support for the benefit of athletes with disabilities and every country in my hemisphere.”

Rana has served as a Board Member of ESFID, the Virtus member organisation in Egypt, since 2016. She is also the Vice Chair of the Chamber of Egyptian Food Industries and Chairperson of the Women in Business Committee at the Federation of Egyptian Industries. In her new role, she will lead and represent Virtus’ African nations on the Governing Board.

Virtus is thrilled to have the new Governing Board members and looks forward to their leadership.

2025 Virtus General Assembly Takes Place At Cairo, Egypt

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The General Assembly of the Virtus, International Federation for People with Intellectual Impairment, began this morning, Saturday, November 8, 2025, in Cairo. This two-day meeting includes the election of a new board of directors.

The meeting opened with a welcome address delivered via videoconference by Dr Ashraf Sobhy, Minister of Youth and Sports, who is currently visiting Saudi Arabia.

Virtus delegation representing 45 countries participated in this General Assembly, including Mr. Marc Truffaut, President of Virtus, Dr. Amr El-Haddad, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Youth and Sports, Dr. Mahmoud Abdel Aziz, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Youth and Sports and Director General of the General Administration of Specialised Federations, Engineer Amal Mobadda, President of the Egyptian Federation for People with Intellectual Disabilities, member of the International Federation, and Vice-President of the Egyptian Paralympic Committee and Dr. Ashraf El-Agili, Vice-President of the Egyptian Federation for People with Intellectual Disabilities and Treasurer of the Egyptian Paralympic Committee.

Delegates attending 2025 General Assembly in Cairo

At the opening of the proceedings, engineer Amal Mobadda presented Egypt’s preparations for hosting the Virtus Global Games 2027. She also gave participants a tour of the stadiums and hotels that will host the competition, drawing admiration from all the delegates.

The delegates, representing 45 countries, had visited the venues designated for the Virtus Global Games 2027. The delegation members expressed their admiration for the quality of Egypt’s sports infrastructure. The meetings will continue tomorrow and will include the election of the new Virtus board of directors.

The first day continued with a presentation by Executive Director Nick Parr, reflecting on some of the major projects Virtus did over the past two years, followed by a presentation on Virtus International Basketball Federation (VIBF), a research update by Debbie Van Biesen, an Introduction to Baseball and Softball by Marco Ienna and Mittia Berardi from World Baseball Softball Confederation.

The afternoon session kicked off with Ian Conyers, Virtus Governing Board member, presenting with an update on FIS and Virtus’ discussions around the winter sports and Paralympic Reinclusion.

The second day of the General Assembly will start with the election of the Virtus Governing Board for multiple positions, including the President, Vice-President and General Secretary, etc.

The day will continue with a reflection on the journey of Lenine Cunha as IPC’s Athlete Council member and the announcement of the Virtus Athlete Council, followed by a round table conference on “Women and Girls Inclusion in sports.”

The delegates will also participate in three focus discussions on Anti-Doping, led by Virtus Anti-Doping Officer, Juliana Soares, the importance of collaborative Marketing & Communications led by Virtus Marketing and Communications Officer, Mousumi Mazumdar and Sport Readiness, led by Virtus Sport and Competition manager, John Pearce.

Table Tennis Sport Director sought (voluntary)

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Virtus is seeking a applications to join us as Sport Director for Table Tennis for the period through to Global Games 2027. The roles offer a fantastic opportunity for coaches and sports practitioners with a good understanding of elite sport for athletes with an intellectual impairment to grow sport globally and make a direct contribution to the running and development of the Virtus sport programme.

Virtus Sport Directors lead the Sports Committees to manage our sport and competition programme. In particular they are responsible for development and growth across all regions, all aspects of competition management, rules, classification management (where applicable) and for fostering positive and mutually beneficial partnerships with International Federations.

Application process and deadline

Applications should be made using the online form giving details of your background and experience for the post.

Your application will be shared with the relevant Virtus national member organisation and an interview may be held before a final decision is made.

Applications should be sent no later than 15th December 2025.

Information about the roles

Reports to: Sport & Competition Manager

Start date: Immediate

End date: Late 2027. Appointments are reviewed on a 4-year cycle, after each Global Games

Working collaboratively, Sport Directors and Committee Members will manage the programme taking lead responsibility for agreed areas.

Key Areas of Responsibility

General

  • To lead the Sport Committee to coordinate and manage the relevant Virtus sport  programme
  • To Chair all meetings of the Sport Committee
  • To take responsibility for agreed tasks as designated by the Sport Committee
  • To attend events, acting as Technical Delegate where designated by the Committee
  • To liaise with the Virtus Competition Manager to deliver the sport plan and priorities

Key Skills and Qualifications (Competency)

  • Has an excellent understanding of, and empathy for, intellectual disability sport and the para sport world
  • Has excellent understanding of the rules of the sport and able to apply them fairly and consistently
  • Has good leadership skills and is able to work effectively within a team
  • Has excellent organisational, communication and administrative skills

Major Interactions

  • Virtus Executive Director and management team
  • Virtus Regions and National Member Organisations
  • Any other stakeholders including potential sponsors and dignitaries

General Requirements

  • All Virtus officials must make all decisions with absolute impartiality in the best interest of athletes, sport and the organisation
  • All Virtus officials must declare any potential conflict of interest and not act in association with any national or vested interest
  • All Virtus officials must not abuse their positions or capacity in obtaining advantages or benefits
  • There must be no association with any agencies or persons that are inconsistent with the 
principles of the Virtus  movement and its ideals
  • All Virtus officials shall promote the Virtus Code of Ethics by role modelling, peer monitoring and active peer support
  • All relationships and activities with partners, supporters and sponsors must be done in the spirit of promoting Virtus

Egytian Athletes Shine At The 2025 Virtus World Table Tennis Championships

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The Egyptian national team delivered a stellar performance at the 2025 Virtus World Table Tennis Championships, reaffirming Egypt’s growing prominence in global sports for athletes with an intellectual impairment. Competing against players from ten nations across different continents, Egypt’s athletes showcased remarkable determination, skill, and sportsmanship—culminating in a total of four bronze medals for the host nation.

Among the standout performances was that of Rahma Khaled, one of Egypt’s most accomplished athletes with intellectual impairment, who claimed two bronze medals — one in the women’s singles (II2 category) and another in the women’s doubles alongside her teammate Mariam Abdelfattah.

Rahma Khaled is celebrating her win at Cairo 2025. Photo Credit: ESFID

Khaled, a well-known public figure and a Virtus ambassador, expressed her immense pride in representing Egypt on home soil.

“I’m extremely proud of these results, especially since the matches were very tough and the level of competition was incredibly high. Playing in my country gave me extra motivation to do my best for Egypt. Every one of us fought hard to raise our national flag.”

Khaled also thanked the technical and administrative staff for their continuous support, adding that their guidance created the ideal environment for success.

“We’re still at the beginning of our journey but the future looks bright. We’ll keep working hard to bring home the gold and make Egypt proud.”

In addition to Khaled’s achievements, Marawan Emad and Nour Eslam secured bronze in the men’s doubles (II3 category) after a spirited campaign, while Abdallah Ahmed of Egypt teamed up with Evan from Bulgaria to capture another bronze in the mixed doubles (II3 category).

These outstanding results reflect the commitment and unity of Egypt’s delegation, which was led by Technical Director Dr Hazem El-Shalkaqany, coaches Ahmed Abdel Aziz, Hassan Ali, and Dr Eman Gamal, Administrative Director Ahmed Ali, and the Head of Delegation, Dr Fatma Fawzy.

Egyptian Table Tennis team at Cairo 2025. Photo Credit: ESFID 2025

The championship was organised under the leadership of Engineer Amal Mobadda, President of the Egyptian Federation for People with Intellectual Impairment, Vice President of the Egyptian Paralympic Committee, and Virtus Governing Board member. Mobadda expressed pride in Egypt’s organisation of this global event, emphasising that it reflects the Egyptian state’s continued commitment to empowering athletes with disabilities and its growing stature as a regional and international sports hub.

“Egypt has proven its ability to host world-class events with excellence and integrity. Our athletes have shown great progress despite the federation’s young age, and we are proud of every success they achieve,” Mobadda said.

Mobadda also paid tribute to the families of the athletes, describing them as “the true partners in the making of champions,” and expressed her gratitude to President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi and Minister of Youth and Sports Dr. Ashraf Sobhy for their unwavering support of Egypt’s Paralympic and intellectual impairment programs.

The successful hosting of the 2025 Virtus World Table Tennis Championships once again demonstrated Egypt’s world-class organisational capacity and hospitality, earning praise from visiting delegations and international officials alike.

Robyn Smith, member of the International Paralympic Committee and Virtus Governing Board, commended Egypt’s exceptional efforts, saying that the country’s leadership and enthusiasm “embody the spirit of unity and inclusion that defines global sport.”

With Cairo also preparing to host the Virtus Global Games in 2027, this championship has further cemented Egypt’s reputation as a trusted and capable host of major international sporting events — and as a beacon of opportunity and inspiration for athletes across the continent.

Table Tennis Committee members sought (voluntary) – multiple positions

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Virtus is seeking applications to join its Table Tennis Committee for the period through to Global Games 2027. The roles offer a fantastic opportunity for coaches and sports practitioners with a good understanding of elite sport for athletes with an impairment to grow sport at a national and regional level and make a direct contribution to the running and development of the Virtus sport programme internationally.

Virtus Sports Committees lead and manage our sport and competition programme. In particular they are responsible for development and growth across all regions, all aspects of competition management, rules, classification management (where applicable) and for fostering positive and mutually beneficial partnerships with International Federations.

Application process and deadline

Applications should be made using the online form giving details of your background and experience for the post.

Your application will be shared with the relevant Virtus national member organisation and an interview may be held before a final decision is made.

Applications should be sent no later than 8th June 2024.

Information about the roles

Reports to: Sport Director

Start date: Immediate

End date: Late 2027. Appointments are reviewed on a 4-year cycle, after each Global Games

Working collaboratively, Committee Members will manage the programme taking lead responsibility for agreed areas.

Key Areas of Responsibility

General

  • To work collaboratively within the Sport Committee whose responsibility is to coordinate and manage the relevant Virtus sport  programme
  • To attend and actively participate in all meetings of the Committee
  • To take responsibility for agreed tasks as designated by the Committee
  • To attend events, acting as Technical Delegate where designated by the Committee
  • To liaise with the local Virtus Region to deliver the sport plan and priorities

Key Skills and Qualifications (Competency)

  • Has an excellent understanding of, and empathy for, sport for athletes with an intellectual impairment sport and the para sport world
  • Has excellent understanding of the rules of the sport and able to apply them fairly and consistently
  • Has good leadership skills and is able to work effectively within a team
  • Has excellent organisational, communication and administrative skills

Major Interactions

  • Chair of the Virtus sport committee
  • Virtus Executive Director and management team
  • Virtus Regions and National Member Organisations
  • Any other stakeholders including potential sponsors and dignitaries

General Requirements

  • All Virtus officials must make all decisions with absolute impartiality in the best interest of athletes, sport and the organisation
  • All Virtus officials must declare any potential conflict of interest and not act in association with any national or vested interest
  • All Virtus officials must not abuse their positions or capacity in obtaining advantages or benefits
  • There must be no association with any agencies or persons that are inconsistent with the 
principles of the Virtus  movement and its ideals
  • All Virtus officials shall promote the Virtus Code of Ethics by role modelling, peer monitoring and active peer support
  • All relationships and activities with partners, supporters and sponsors must be done in the spirit of promoting Virtus

Chinese Taipei and Neutral Team Crowned as Champions In Men’s and Women’s II1 Category at Cairo 2025

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The Doubles finals for both Men and Women made it’s way to the Cairo International Stadium yesterday.

The crowd watched with excitement as Chen Po-Yen, the IITF rank no. 1 and Paris 2024 silver medalist, joined Fei Hsieh to represent Chinese Taipei in the gold medal match against Laptev Konstantin and Kudriavtsev Alexey from the Neutral team.

The match began with great intensity. The Neutrals took control early, winning the first game 5–11. But for the Taipei pair, it wasn’t a setback — it was a lesson.

“We realised that they have a strong backhand so we tried to make them play in the forehand.”

Using what they learned, Chen and Fei came back stronger. Their teamwork and focus turned the tide, and after a tense battle, they won the second game 14–12.

The Neutrals kept up the fight, but the Taipei players showed steady control and confidence. They went on to win the next two games 12–10 and 11–6, taking the final score to 1–3 and earning their first-ever doubles championship title.

“We never played against this team so it took us some time to understand how they play… We are very happy with our performance. It’s our first doubles medal and it’s also Fei Hsieh’s first international medal, so this is a very big moment for us,” said Po-Yen, the Global Games 2023 champion, smiling with pride.

Maria Galkina and Elena Prokofeva in action at Cairo 2025. Photo Credit: Cairo 2025

The women’s doubles final brought another thrilling contest. Maria Galkina and Elena Prokofeva from the Neutral team faced Li Jing-Shiuan and Li Lydia Yi-Ya from Chinese Taipei in a match full of energy and determination.

From the start, experience made the difference. Elena Prokofeva, the Tokyo 2020 champion and Paris 2024 silver medalist, guided her team to win the first game 11–9. The Taipei pair fought hard in the next round, pushing the game to a close finish, but narrowly lost 15–17.

With confidence building, the Neutral team stayed strong and secured the final game 11–5, winning the championship title.

“I am very proud of the girls. Although they lost the gold, they are happy to win the silver medal too. This was their first time playing against this team, and they were a bit nervous,” said coach Meng-Hsuan Chiang.

“They are very experienced players and their skills are very good. We will try to find players with similar styles in Chinese Taipei to practice with them and come better prepared to win the gold next time,” he added.

With every match, the athletes continue to show courage, growth, and teamwork — proving that true champions rise not just by winning, but by giving their best in every moment.

Full results can be accessed from the competition website.

Fifty Four Year Old, Elena Prokofera Continues Legedary Game, Wins Gold At Cairo 2025

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The most iconic showdown of the day electrified the stadium as the Women’s II1 Singles match took center stage — a duel that felt less like a competition and more like a story of grit, rivalry, and respect.

At one end stood Elena Prokofeva (NVA) — Tokyo 2020 Gold Medalist and Paris 2024 Silver Medalist, a seasoned veteran whose composure has long been her greatest weapon. Facing her was the fiery Ebru Acer (TUR) — Paris 2024 Bronze Medalist and Global Games 2023 Champion, a player celebrated for her aggressive game and relentless energy.

The first set began with Prokofeva asserting her authority, delivering precise shots and controlling the rhythm of play to take it 11–5. Her experience and tactical mastery were on full display. But Acer was far from done — the Turkish powerhouse stormed back with fierce determination, unleashing a flurry of smashes and quick transitions to snatch the next two sets 7–11, 7–11, shifting the momentum dramatically in her favor.

“I am extremely happy to win this medal. I feel very comfortable.”

Acer Ebru is celebrating after winning a point in the final set. Photo Credit: ESFID

The tension in the arena grew with every point. Both players knew each other’s styles inside out, having met several times before.

“I played with her in Italy and I lost the match. But each time we play, it’s like a new game — different tactics and strategies.”

Drawing on that familiarity, Elena adapted swiftly. She read Acer’s angles, anticipated her drives, and began to play with an almost meditative calm. With patient precision, she reclaimed control in the fourth set, 11–5, setting the stage for an all-or-nothing decider.

What followed was a masterclass in resilience and heart. The fifth set became a tug of war — Acer hammering blistering smashes across the table, Prokofeva responding with smooth returns and focus. Every rally drew gasps from the crowd, each point a battle within the war.

Finally, with a graceful yet decisive stroke, Elena sealed the set 11–9, completing a magnificent comeback and claiming the match 3–2.

At 54 years old, Prokofeva continues to inspire, proving that passion and consistency can transcend time. Her longevity in the sport, she says, comes from dedication and discipline.

When asked about her enduring motivation, she offered a message that resonated far beyond the game:

“You have to love your profession and your work — to set a purpose, and pursue that purpose.”

It was more than just a match. It was a testament to experience meeting ambition — and to the unbreakable spirit that defines true champions.