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.

French Dominance Shines on Day 2: Doubles Champions Crowned in Cairo

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The tension was electric and the rallies relentless as Day 2 of the 2025 Virtus World Table Tennis Championships in Cairo delivered a spectacle of grit, glory, and pure sporting excellence. The doubles finals saw the French contingent rise to the occasion, sweeping the courts with skill, unity, and unbreakable spirit.

It was a clash of champions as two powerhouse French duos faced off in a thrilling finale. Lucile Poquet and Céline Delalande went head-to-head with Carole Hennion and Camille Frison in a match that kept the crowd on edge until the very last point.

Lucile and Céline struck early, taking the first two sets 11–13 and 6–11 with remarkable control and intensity. But Hennion and Frison refused to surrender, clawing back the third set 12–10 to ignite hope of a comeback. The final set turned into a battle of nerves and endurance, but Lucile and Céline held firm, powering through to close the match 9–11, securing gold in a dramatic 3–1 victory.

The camaraderie and sportsmanship displayed by all four players reflected the true spirit of the Virtus Championships — competitive yet deeply respectful.

Men’s II2 Doubles finals match. Photo Credit: ESFID

The French pair Aymeric Gouyaud and Bachevillier were unstoppable as they faced their compatriots Alexandre Sibout and Cédric Courrillaud in an all-French final that showcased precision, power, and tactical brilliance.

From the first serve, Gouyaud and Bachevillier dominated the rhythm, keeping their opponents under pressure with lightning-fast returns and impeccable coordination. Their chemistry was unmatched, sealing a commanding 3–0 win (6–11, 5–11, 4–11) to claim the Men’s II2 Doubles Championship title. It was a masterclass in teamwork — and a clear message that French table tennis is thriving at its finest.

“We are very happy to win the finals. It was an easy game for us”

Pierre and Théo (FRA) in action at II3 Men’s Doubles. Photo Credit: ESFID

If ever there was a match to define courage and perseverance, it was the Men’s II3 Doubles Final. The French duo Pierre Delhom and Théo Clastres took on Thomas Sallier (FRA) and Enes Burç (TUR) in a heart-stopping contest that had the audience holding their breath.

Pierre and Théo stormed ahead with two convincing sets 11–2 and 11–9, their confidence soaring. But Sallier and Burç mounted a fierce comeback, snatching the next two sets 11–13 and 9–11, forcing a deciding fifth. The atmosphere inside the Cairo International Stadium was electric as both teams pushed their limits.

In the end, Delhom and Clastres summoned every ounce of resilience, executing flawless plays to capture the final set 11–7 — and with it, the championship title in a spectacular 3–2 triumph. The crowd erupted as the French pair raised their paddles high, celebrating not just a victory, but a moment of sheer sporting brilliance.

France stood tall on Day 2, marking their dominance and passion for the sport in an exhilarating showcase of doubles excellence in Cairo!

Top Athletes Advance To Semi-Finals as Cairo Witnesses an Electric Start to the 2025 Virtus Table Tennis Championships

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The Table Tennis Centre at the Cairo Stadium roared with excitement and fierce determination on the opening day of the 2025 Virtus World Table Tennis Championships. The atmosphere was electric — paddles clashing, cheers echoing, and every rally pushing athletes one step closer to glory.

Singles Matches

In the Men’s II1 category, after intense round-robin battles, Chen Po-Yen (CTP), Leung Chung Yan (HKG), Laptev Konstantin (NVA), and Wan Wai Lok (HKG) emerged as the semi-finalists. Tomorrow, Chen Po-Yen will face Leung Chung Yan in what promises to be a thrilling showdown, while Laptev Konstantin will take on Wan Wai Lok for a coveted place in the finals.

In the Women’s II1 division, Acer Ebru (TUR) will meet Galkina Maria (NVA), and Prokofeva Elena (NVA) will battle Wong Ting Ting (HKG) — all aiming to edge closer to the championship crown.

The II2 category remains wide open, with both men’s and women’s round-robin matches continuing tomorrow. Players with the highest points in their groups will advance to the semi-finals. Among the men, Delhom Pierre (FRA) will clash with Clastres Theo (FRA), while Burc Enes (TUR) will take on Sallier Thomas (FRA) in a fight for the final berth.

Doubles Matches

In Women’s Doubles II1, the crowd witnessed two breathtaking semi-finals.

  • Neutral Virtus Athletes — Elena Prokofeva and Galkina Maria — triumphed over Hong Kong’s Wong Ting Ting and Wong Pui Kei in a nail-biting 3–2 victory (11-9, 6-11, 11-9, 8-11, 3-11).

  • Chinese Taipei’s Li Jing-Shiuan and Li Lydia Yi-Ya outlasted Neutral Virtus Athletes Kosacheva Anzhelika and Minaeva Viktoriia 3–2 (11-8, 5-11, 11-13, 11-2, 11-4).

The Women’s Doubles Final is now set — Chinese Taipei vs. Neutral Virtus Athletes, a clash destined to thrill.

In the Men’s II1 Doubles, Wan Wai Lok and Yuen King Shing (HKG) will take on Chinese Taipei’s Chen Po-Yen and Ahamada Abdouraza, while two Neutral Virtus teams — Gayfullin Kemal with Yuen King Shing, and Laptev Konstantin with Kudriavtsev Alexev — battle for a spot in the finals.

In the Men’s II2 Doubles, the French duo Sibout Alexandre and Cedric Courrillaud claimed victory over Italy’s Ghilandi Marco, marking a strong start for France. In another match, Gouyard Aymeric and Asaro Francesco (FRA) defeated Soldado Gonçalves Joao and Jeanpierre Octave (FRA) to secure their place in the semi-finals.

Meanwhile, in the Women’s Doubles, teams from France (Hennion Carole & Frison Camille; Poquet Lucile & Delalande Celine), Egypt (Hany Mariam & Hussein Rahma), and Italy (Abate Anna & Ingrao Jessica) all powered their way into the semi-finals.

As the first day came to a close, the spirit of competition burned bright in Cairo — a powerful reminder that this championship is not just about medals, but about heart, determination, and the unifying power of sport. The battle continues tomorrow, and the best is yet to come.

Full results can be accessed from the competition website.

Cairo Welcomes The World To Their Inaugural Virtus Competition, 2025 Virtus World Table Tennis Championships

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The Cairo International Stadium came alive with energy, joy, and excitement as it hosted the grand opening ceremony of the 2025 Virtus World Table Tennis Championships — a historic moment marking Egypt’s first time hosting a Virtus World Championship. The event set a new benchmark of excellence and pride for the nation and the Virtus community.

The ceremony was graced by distinguished guests, including Dr Ashraf Sobhy, Minister of Youth and Sports; Eng. Amal Mobadda, President of the Egyptian Sports Federation for Intellectual Disabilities (ESFID); Robyn Smith, Virtus Governing Board representative and IPC’s Governing Board member; Major General Ismail El-Far; Dr Amr El-Haddad; Dr Hossam El-Din Mostafa, President of the Egyptian Paralympic Committee; and representatives from the National Bank of Egypt and the Human Rights Sector, along with numerous board members of both ESFID and the Egyptian Paralympic Committee.

Virtus Governing Board representative Robyn Smith (first from left in the first row) and ESFID President, Amal Mobadda (second from left in first row), are attending the opening ceremony of Cairo 2025 along with representatives of the Egyptian Paralympic Committee, ESFID Board members. Photo Credit: ESFID

The event began with a warm welcome to delegates and athletes, followed by the Egyptian national anthem. Mesmerising cultural dance by the Cairo Ballet Institute and Dream band of differently abled added colour, spirit, and authentic Egyptian flair to the evening.

In her inspiring address, Eng. Amal Mobadda said, “This event is more than just a sport competition — it’s a message of hope, a celebration of life, and a bridge of connection between nations.”

She highlighted the pride of hosting the championship soon after the opening of the Egyptian Museum, saying, “In these few days, sporting achievement met with civilizational pride. Here, Egypt’s rich history and bold future will come together.”

She also expressed deep gratitude to President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi, calling him “the strongest supporter of Egyptian sport and the leader whose vision turned ‘differently abled’ into a national symbol of pride and inspiration.”

“I offer my deepest respect and gratitude to His Excellency President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi, President of the Arab Republic of Egypt – the strongest supporter of Egyptian sport and the leader whose vision turned “differently abled” into a national symbol of pride and inspiration. He announced the amazing news of Egypt winning the bid to host the 2027 Virtus Global Games and honoured us by promising to attend the opening eremony.”

Dr. Ashraf Sobhy, Minister of Youth and Sports, emphasized that the championship carries “a humanitarian and civilized message affirming Egypt’s leadership in empowering people of determination.” He commended the collaboration between the Ministry, the Egyptian Paralympic Committee, and ESFID, underscoring their shared mission to strengthen Egypt’s sports system and fulfill the dreams of its champions.

Athletes standing up for the Virtus and Egyptian Anthem at the opening ceremony of the 2025 Virtus World Table Tennis Championship, Cairo.

Representing Virtus, Robyn Smith praised Egypt’s achievement, stating,

“This championship marks a historic moment for Egypt as they host the first Virtus World Championship… In just two years, Egypt will again make history by hosting the 7th Virtus Global Games.”

She encouraged the athletes, adding, “You are the true champions and the heart of this competition. Believe in yourselves, play with pride, and enjoy every moment of this unforgettable journey.”

Athletes from ten nations — Bulgaria, Egypt, France, Hong Kong, Italy, Macau, Portugal, Neutral, Chinese Taipei, and Turkey — will compete over the next four days for the top honors in Cairo, showcasing skill, sportsmanship, and the unifying spirit of the Virtus movement.

More information about the championship can be found on the championship website. 

Virtus International Basketball Federation is seeking hosts for a number of 2028-2030 championships

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The Virtus International Basketball Federation (VIBF) has today opened the bid process for a number of events, including major World Cup and World Championships.  Bidding is open to all National Member Organisations of Virtus and the process is usually a competitive one, as hosting an event can have considerable benefits for the host nation and athletes who have the rare opportunity to compete on home-soil.

Jan Stirling (VIBF President) said “VIBF is blessed with so many organisations who are willing to host our event programme, which grows with each 4-year cycle.  The period to the 2031 Global Games will be no different as we see ii2 (athletes with severe intellectual disability and/or multiple impairment) and ii3 (athletes with autism) competition included across our sport programme – a major expansion which ensures fairer and more competitive events”.

The VIBF event program through until 2031 is set out below:

 

2026 2027 2028 2029 2030 2031
3×3 World Cup event for men and women In conjunction with a Virtus Regional Games 3×3 and 5×5 event for men and women at the Global Games 3×3 World Cup event for men and women 3×3 and 5×5 World Championship for men and women 3×3 World Cup event for men and women In conjunction with a Virtus Regional Games 3×3 and 5×5 event for men and women at the Global Games
Venue tbc Cairo, Egypt Open for bids Open for bids Open for bids Venue tbc
    Bid deadline 31/01/2026 Bid deadline 30/06/2026 Bid deadline 31/03/2026  

*Note:  For the avoidance of doubt, all events held later than June 2025 should include, where viable, competition for II1, II2 and II3 athletes and this should be reflected in the bid document.

Further information about the events open to bid can be found on the Virtus website.

VIBF Commission Representatives – (voluntary – multiple positions)

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The Virtus International Basketball Federation (VIBF) is the new global governing body for basketball for players with an intellectual impairment. With a mission to drive the development of elite basketball worldwide for players with an intellectual impairment, the VIBF organises multiple international world championships and world cup events, sets standards for Basketball players and advocates for the sport’s re-inclusion in the Paralympic Games. Virtus, the owner of the VIBF, has a base of over 90 national member organisations from every continent.

The inaugural Commission Representatives will be appointed in late 2025 and will work with other Commission members and the VIBF Executive Committee on developments that will grow basketball world-wide for high performance players with intellectual impairments and ensure key targets related to 3×3 basketball and women’s basketball are met. Further, the VIBF Commission Representatives will be the voice for this exciting new organisation and movement within Virtus Zones.

VIBF is looking to establish a range of Commissions to support its program of activities:

  • Athlete’s Commission – 1x representative from each of the VIBF/Virtus Zones (ie, Africa, Americas, Asia, Europe, Oceania – total of 5)
  • Coach’s Commission – 1x representative from each of the VIBF/Virtus Zones (ie, Africa, Americas, Asia, Europe, Oceania – total of 5)
  • Women’s Commission – 1x representative from each of the VIBF/Virtus Zones (ie, Africa, Americas, Asia, Europe, Oceania – total of 5)

In early 2026, VIBF will be seeking Expressions of Interest for a further two (2) Commissions – ie, Technical Officials Commission and Development Commission.

Nominees should submit their interest using the online form here responding to the Role Description, attach a Resume and seek endorsement from their respective Virtus National Member Organisation as part of their Expression of Interest.

Expressions of Interest close on 30 November, 2025.

More Records Fall and History Is Made as the 2025 Virtus World Athletics Championships Concludes in Brisbane

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The 2025 Virtus World Athletics Championships in Brisbane wrapped up in spectacular fashion, marking one of the most record-breaking events in Virtus Athletics history. Across the II1, II2, and II3 competition classes, athletes from around the world shattered World Records, delivered unforgettable performances, and embodied the true spirit of excellence, resilience, and inclusion.

II1 Events

The Italian Men’s 4x100m relay team — S. Bianca, F. Seck, M. Bertolaso, and N. Dieng — ignited the record-breaking momentum early, setting a new World Record of 43.26 seconds, a performance that electrified the stadium.

David Pineda Mejia (left) and Deepthi Jeevanji (centre in right photo, next to Lorri) at Brisbane 2025. Photo Credit: SIA

Spain’s superstar and Paris 2024 Paralympic silver medalist, David Pineda Mejia, continued his phenomenal form, smashing the Men’s 200m World Record with a stunning 21.37 seconds. Pineda recently captured the World title in the 400m at the 2025 World Para Athletics Championships in New Delhi — cementing his dominance on the global stage.

India’s history-making Paris 2024 Paralympic bronze medalist, Deepthi Jeevanji, thrilled fans once again, rewriting the record books with a breathtaking 24.62 seconds in the II1 Women’s 200m, setting a new World Record in Brisbane.

Spain struck gold again in the 4x400m relay, as Rodriguez, Rodriguez, Martinez, and Pineda set another World Record, clocking 3:19.12 seconds.

II2 Events

II2 Italian Men’s 4x100m Relay team. Photo Credit: FISDIR

The Italian II2 Men’s 4x100m relay team — E. Tridente, A. Piacentini, T. Capitani, and G. Zaramella — made history once more, powering to a World Record time of 58.31 seconds in a brilliant display of teamwork and precision.

Brazil’s Pedro Henrique continued his unstoppable streak, completing a hat-trick of World Records. After his earlier triumphs, he stormed to victory in the Men’s 200m, setting a new record of 27.30 seconds. His rivals, Benjamin Kalenjuk (AUS) and Andrea Piacentini (ITA), also finished below the previous record with 28.11s and 28.45s, respectively — underlining the incredible standard of competition.

Italy’s Giovanni Zaramella added another record for the Azzurri, setting a new II2 Men’s 800m World Record of 2:46.50 seconds. Spain’s Mikel García followed close behind, finishing in 2:54.58 seconds, also below the old record.

Virtus Global Games 2023 champion Chiara Zeni (ITA) added another title to her growing legacy, breaking the II2 Women’s 200m World Record with a time of 31.60 seconds.

II3 Events

The II3 category witnessed a spectacular last two days, with nine new World Records set by athletes with autism, underscoring the depth of talent in this class.

Siarne Davis (centre) sharing a podium moment with Emma Papantoniou (right) and Samya Goda (left) after winning II3 Javelin Throw. Photo Credit: SIA

Australia’s Siarne Davis stole the spotlight, rewriting history in two more throwing events. After setting the new mark for Javelin, Siarne went on to set two more records, with 37.60m in the Women’s Discus Throw and 8.59m in the Shot Put, completing a remarkable triple-record performance.

Australia continued its dominance as Kobi-Lee Dyer soared to 4.15m in the Women’s Long Jump, setting a new World Record. Claudia Flamini followed closely with 4.04m, also surpassing the previous record of 3.86m.

France’s Mathieu Bon added to the global celebration, leaping 6.07m in the II3 Men’s Long Jump to claim another World Record.

Sadie Graham-Mulveney (centre), Agnese Spotorno (left) and Kobi-Lee Dyer (right) posing with a medal after winning the II3 Women’s 100m dash. Photo Credit: SIA

Great Britain’s Sadie Graham-Mulveney continued to shine in the short distance by setting a World Record in 200m with 27.35sec.

Australia’s Emma Papantoniou set a new World Record in the Women’s 800m, clocking 2:55.41 seconds, later saying,

“I just wanted to have a good race at my first international championship, and anything after that would have been a bonus. So this gold medal is a bonus — and the World Record is even more. I’m very proud of myself.”

Italy continued its dominance as Federico Cabizza sprinted to a new Men’s 200m World Record with 23.44 seconds, followed by Great Britain’s Sadie Graham-Mulvaney, who set another record in the Women’s 200m with 27.35 seconds.

To close the championship in style, Italy’s Luca Venturelli raised his nation’s flag high, winning gold with a World Record in the Men’s II3 5000m, clocking 15:20.26 seconds.

As the curtain falls on the 2025 Virtus World Athletics Championships, Brisbane has witnessed a week of pure sporting brilliance — a celebration of unity, resilience, and excellence that will echo across the world.

Full results can be accessed from here.

Eleven World Record Fall In The First Two Days of The 2025 Virtus World Athletics Championships

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Sunny Brisbane set the perfect stage as the 2025 Virtus World Athletics Championships entered its second day, with world-class performances lighting up the track and field. Athletes from across the globe — including Paralympic and Virtus stars — pushed the limits of human potential, rewriting record books and inspiring the crowd.

II2 Events: Records Tumble in Every Corner

The Men’s II2 400m delivered a thrilling showdown between Pedro Henrique (BRA) and Takahiro Inatomi (JPN). Both athletes stormed past the previous World Record, with Pedro clocking 1:06.69 sec and Takahiro finishing close behind in 1:06.91 sec.

Pedro’s dominance didn’t stop there — he captured a second gold in the II2 Men’s 100m, setting yet another World Record. Though Australia’s Benjamin Kalenjuk led the first 50m, Pedro surged ahead to win by 0.04 sec, crossing the line in 13.31 sec.

In the Women’s II2 100m, Italian star Chiara Zeni shattered her own World Record, improving her mark from 15.21 seconds to 15.15 sec.

Egypt’s Fatmaelzahraa Mohamed continued the record-breaking streak in the Women’s 1500m, lowering her own best from 8:03.71 sec to 8:01.31 sec.

On the field, Japan’s Kai Kameyama unleashed a powerful Javelin throw of 30.23m, breaking Nicholas’s previous World Record by 3.80m.

Meanwhile, Italy’s versatile champion Nicole Orlando made her mark in the Javelin Throw, surpassing her own World Record with a new distance of 19.29m, improving from 19.22m.

David Vodstrcil (CZE) capped off the II2 events by setting a new World Record in the Men’s Triathlon with 955 points, sealing an incredible start for his nation.

II3 Events: Lightning Speed and Unstoppable Throws

In the Women’s II3 100m, fans witnessed one of the most electrifying moments of the championship. Sadie Graham-Mulvaney (GBR) blazed down the track in 12.81 seconds, narrowly ahead of Italy’s Agnese Spotorno (13.99 sec). Both athletes ran below the previous World Record mark, but it was Sadie who claimed gold — and etched her name into Virtus history.

Not to be outdone, Agnese Spotorno returned to the track in the 400m, smashing her own World Record and cutting her time from 1:09.52 sec to 1:06.28 sec — a display of sheer determination and speed.

In the Men’s II3 Javelin, Australian thrower Liam Griffet put on a masterclass in consistency and power, breaking his own record three times. He opened strong with 34.31m, surpassing his previous best of 33.80m, and kept building momentum with throws of 36.99m and 36.86m — before sealing a new World Record at 38.10m in his fourth attempt.

The Women’s Javelin event added to the excitement, featuring an intense battle between Siarne Davis (AUS), Samya Goda (EGY), and Emma Papantoniou (AUS). All three surpassed the previous record mark of 14.53m, but it was Siarne Davis who triumphed with a commanding 19.11m, followed by Samya (15.36m) and Emma (15.12m).

From sprinting to throwing, from rising stars to seasoned champions, the opening days of the 2025 Virtus World Athletics Championships have already made history — with 11 World Records falling and countless personal bests achieved. Brisbane’s energy and the athletes’ spirit promise that the best is yet to come.

Livestream of the event can be watched from the Included Through Sport YouTube account.

Live results can be accessed from here.

Brisbane Welcomes the World as the 2025 Virtus World Athletics Championships Officially Opens

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The spirit of inclusion and excellence came alive in Brisbane as the 2025 Virtus World Athletics Championships officially opened at the Roma Street Parklands Amphitheatre. With vibrant colours, cultural performances, and the energy of athletes from around the world, the opening ceremony set the stage for what promises to be an unforgettable celebration of sport and humanity.

Athletes from 31 nations — Brazil, Cook Islands, Czech Republic, Ecuador, Egypt, Finland, France, Great Britain, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Israel, Italy, Japan, Kazakhstan, Kenya, Macau, Malaysia, Norway, Peru, Poland, Portugal, Neutal Athletes, Soloman Islands, Spain, Sri Lanka, Fiji, Marshall Islands, Papa New Guinea, United Stated of America and Australia — proudly paraded through the amphitheatre, carrying their national flags high.

Cultural performance paying tribute to the Turrbal and Yuggera peoples, the traditional custodians of the land. Photo Credit: SIA

The evening began with a powerful Welcome to Country, paying tribute to the Turrbal and Yuggera peoples, the traditional custodians of the land, followed by a stunning cultural performance by Yeremy Gundia, who showcased the artistry and spirit of the host nation through fire and dance.

The Australian national anthem, performed by Emma Tomlinson and the Yeronga State School Choir, filled the venue with emotion and unity.

Dr. Christian Rowan MP, Assistant Minister to the Premier and Leader of the House in the Queensland Parliament, delivered an inspiring opening address on behalf of the Queensland Government.

“Brisbane is hosting more than 300 athletes from 31 nations in what will be a fantastic exhibition of talent, teamwork, and determination. To reach this stage means that you are already amongst the best in the world. Over the coming days, you’ll have the chance to push your limits, aim for a medal and achieve your personal best. But even beyond that, simply being here and participating is something that you can extract. You can be extremely proud of it.”

He highlighted the legacy of Queensland’s iconic venues such as QSAC, which has hosted many historic sporting moments, and reminded athletes that their achievements will help shape the path to the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

Virtus Secretary General Barry Holman followed with an emotional address celebrating the unity of the Virtus family and the global power of inclusive sport.

“It’s always such a pleasure to see the Virtus family of nations gathered together. Make no mistake — you are among the world’s best at what you do, and the world can’t wait to see what you achieve in the coming days.”

Holman paid tribute to the long-standing partnership with Sport Inclusion Australia, commending their leadership in hosting Virtus events in Brisbane, from the 2019 Global Games to the 2022 Virtus Oceania Asia Games, and now the 2025 World Athletics Championships.

He also recognised Virtus athletes Barbara Bieganowska-Zajac and Lenine Cunha, who competed at the 2005 Championships in Canberra and continue to inspire a new generation of athletes.

“You two have a 20-year career representing your country at the highest levels of sport and you are an inspiration to all these athletes here at Brisbane tonight,” Holman told the athletes.”

Robyn Smith OAM, CEO of Sport Inclusion Australia, extended a heartfelt welcome to all participants, partners, and volunteers.

“Tonight, we celebrate you — the athletes. You are the reason we are here. You represent the very best of what sport stands for — determination, high performance, respect, and humanity.”

Smith acknowledged the support of the Australian Government, the Queensland Government, and the Brisbane City Council, whose commitment to inclusion has enabled Brisbane to host three major Virtus events in recent years.

She also highlighted the importance of collaboration across sport federations, including Athletics Australia, Queensland Athletics, and the Oceania Athletics Association, for helping to elevate the standard of inclusive sport.

In a touching moment, Smith honoured Indigenous artist Elsa, whose artwork features on the official championship uniforms, symbolising connection, heritage, and unity through art.

“Events like this remind us that sport has the power to connect us all. As Brisbane looks ahead to hosting the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games, this event builds the legacy of inclusion — one where every athlete has a place in sport.”

Emma Tomlinson performing “The Fire” at the opening ceremony of the 2025 Virtus World Athletics Championship. Photo Credit: SIA

The evening continued with a spectacular performance of “The Fire” by Emma Tomlinson and the All Abilities Dance Group, followed by cultural performances from Auntie Maureen Ann, the Papua New Guinea performers, and the Local Bird of Paradise group, captivating the crowd with their energy and artistry.

The ceremony concluded with athletes Talea Blacksmith and Liam Griffith leading the Athletes’ Oath, marking the official start of the championships.

Barry Holman, Secretary General of Virtus and Robyn Smith OAM announced the championship open.

As the lights dimmed and the crowd erupted in applause, one message rang clear across Brisbane: the 2025 Virtus World Athletics Championships is more than a competition — it is a celebration of resilience, inclusion, and the unbreakable human spirit.

Further information about the event and live results can be accessed from the competition website.