RIYADH: The international governing body for yoga and yogasana, the Yoga Global Federation, officially began operations following its inaugural general assembly.
Delegates and member nations from all five continents gathered virtually in a display of global unity to ratify the federation’s launch and confirm its founding leadership.
The meeting confirmed the appointment of a leadership team with deep diplomatic and sporting expertise, including Shaikha Al-Sabah (Kuwait), a recipient of the prestigious Padma Shri award, as president and Alwaleed Alkeaid (Saudi Arabia), an award-winning sport executive, as secretary-general.
The first major milestone in the organization’s sporting calendar was then announced — the federation has designated June 2026 as the date for its first international yoga championship.
The tournament, which could align with the annual International Day of Yoga on June 21, will serve as a stage for athletes worldwide and mark a new era of competitive opportunity for the sport.
“Today, we have united the world of yoga under one roof,” said Al-Sabah.
“With member nations joining us from Asia, Africa, Europe, the Americas and Oceania, we are truly a global family. Together with our secretary-general, Alwaleed Alkeaid, we look forward to welcoming the world to our inaugural championship in 2026.”
