Saudi Arabia sets 11 priority Olympic sports

Saudi Arabia has identified 11 Olympic and Paralympic sports as national priorities, focusing resources on disciplines with the strongest potential to deliver podium finishes. The Saudi Olympic and Paralympic Committee announced the new strategy in September 2026.

The 11 selected sports are athletics, judo, taekwondo, karate, jiu-jitsu, swimming, weightlifting, shooting, equestrian, fencing, and wrestling. Development efforts, funding, and athlete support will be concentrated in these areas to raise overall competitiveness.

A central goal of the plan is to improve the Kingdom's medal performance ahead of the 2034 Asian Games, which Riyadh is set to host. By narrowing its focus, the committee aims to build sustained strength in sports where Saudi athletes can realistically reach the medal stage.

The announcement comes alongside preparations for the 2026 Asian Games, where Saudi Arabia has confirmed a 144-athlete delegation competing across 19 disciplines. The larger squad reflects the country's broader push to expand participation while sharpening its long-term competitive strategy.

Why it matters

For residents and sports fans across the Kingdom, the strategy signals a clearer roadmap for national athletic development in the years ahead. With Riyadh preparing to host a major continental event in 2034, the priority-sports approach is designed to give Saudi athletes a stronger platform to compete at the highest levels.

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