Construction of the Olympic Village completed
Construction began on November 9, 2022. At that time, the Head of State noted that the Olympic Village would become a symbol of the tremendous creative potential of our people and the outstanding achievements of Uzbek sports, distinguished by its advanced architecture, energy efficiency, and the implementation of the most cutting-edge innovative solutions.
These words have been fully justified – within a short time, an impressive complex has been built on an area of more than 100 hectares. The unique project, worth nearly $290 million, was implemented by CAMC Engineering in accordance with international standards.
The village accommodates five main sports facilities.
Particular attention is drawn to the velodrome, built using complex engineering solutions and an original design. The quality, trajectory, and angles of its track fully meet the requirements of the International Olympic Committee. The multilayer surface is made of the strongest types of wood. To preserve the quality of the surface, a stable temperature will be maintained inside the velodrome throughout the year. Even air resistance has been taken into account. Lighting has been arranged evenly and optimally, ensuring comfort for athletes, spectators, and television broadcasts. The stands are designed to accommodate 2,200 people. In accordance with the new IOC requirements, protective barriers have been installed in the spectator areas. In addition, the velodrome is multifunctional: it can also host competitions and training sessions in table tennis and fencing. This is the first facility of its kind in Uzbekistan. The President instructed the development of a program to promote cycling across the regions and to create the necessary conditions for this purpose.
Shavkat Mirziyoyev emphasized that table tennis is an accessible and popular sport, and gave instructions to actively introduce it in schools and mahallas, as well as to establish production of the necessary equipment.
At the center of the village stands a stadium with a capacity of 12,000 seats. During international tournaments, it will host ceremonial events, while its green field and nine-lane running track will accommodate competitions in 48 athletics disciplines, including World Championships, the Diamond League, Paralympic events, and IBSA Games for the visually impaired. At other times, the stadium will be used for training camps and dual education programs. A four-story building adjacent to the stadium will house specialists from national teams and sports federations.
The Head of State emphasized that athletics and Paralympic disciplines are of great importance for strengthening public health and are widely represented in the programs of the Olympic and Asian Games. Yet, their potential in Uzbekistan is not being fully utilized. In this regard, instructions were given to develop a comprehensive set of measures for advancing all areas of athletics: to reconstruct stadiums in the regions, improve training conditions, attract foreign coaches, and enhance athletes’ skills.
The Aquatic Sports Palace also stands out for its modernity and convenience. It features 25x50-meter swimming pools, a 25x20-meter diving pool, a training pool, and fitness halls. All conditions and dimensions fully comply with international Olympic standards. Recently, a delegation from the World Aquatics inspected the complex and confirmed its compliance. As a result, the venue is capable of hosting Asian and World Championships in swimming, diving, synchronized swimming, and water polo, including tournaments within the Olympic program. The stands can accommodate more than 2,000 spectators. The President noted the need for further development of aquatic sports and for improving results at international tournaments.
Complexes for team sports and martial arts have also been built in line with international standards. Each of them is a three-story facility with seating for 2,000 spectators. One is designated for training and international competitions in volleyball, basketball, and handball, while the martial arts hall is intended for judo, boxing, and taekwondo.
During his visit, the President met with athletes:
“You raise our flag in international arenas and showcase the development of our country. Each of your victories is a source of pride for the people, a testament to strength, and inspiration for the youth. Continue these efforts, guide the juniors, and elevate our sport to even greater heights”, Shavkat Mirziyoyev said.
The Olympic Village also includes 15 outdoor fields for football, volleyball, tennis, field hockey, and athletics. Construction is nearing completion on a 400-bed dormitory for Paralympians and a Scientific-Practical Center for Sports Medicine.
All facilities in the village will be energy-efficient. Solar panels will be installed above the parking areas. UzA
