The inaugural BRICS Games concluded in Kazan, with Russia securing a commanding lead in the medal standings.
Russian athletes amassed 173 gold, 101 silver, and 69 bronze medals, totalling 343 medals. Belarus followed with 32 gold, 56 silver, and 68 bronze, while China secured 17 gold, 17 silver, and 12 bronze medals.
Other notable performances included Brazil ranking 5th overall, Iran 6th, India 8th, South Africa 11th, Egypt 20th, and the UAE 23rd.
A total of 387 medal sets were awarded across 27 sports during the BRICS Games, which saw participation from 82 countries and approximately 3,000 athletes from South and North America, Europe, Asia, and Africa.
The event garnered significant international attention, with coverage from 750 media personnel representing 18 countries, TV BRICS reported.
Vladimir Leonov, Minister of Sport of the Republic of Tatarstan, praised the Games as a resounding success and emphasised the productive meeting of BRICS sports ministers held on the sidelines. The meeting resulted in the adoption of key documents that will guide future cooperation and activities among the BRICS nations in the realm of sports.
“The main thing is that all of us – both athletes and spectators enjoyed it,” said Leonov. “This was a new project, therehave never been competitions of this rank within the BRICS community. We set the bar incredibly high. Many athletes compare the Games in terms of the level of preparation to the Olympics. There is a great future for this format.”
Akshay Unecha, a dancer from India, echoed Leonov’s sentiments, expressing gratitude to Russia for organising the BRICS Games and highlighting their importance in fostering peace and unity through sport.
Leonov concluded by acknowledging the challenges that may lie ahead for future host nations, particularly Brazil, but assured them of Russia’s support and collaboration in ensuring the continued success of the BRICS Games.
