BRICS Sports Games open in Russia

The BRICS Sports Games have started in Kazan, the capital of the Republic of Tatarstan. The competitions will run until 23 June. The Games have never been held in Russia before. TV BRICS is the international information partner of the BRICS Games.

The start of the tournament itself was given by Russian President Vladimir Putin via video link. 

"I declare the 2024 BRICS Sports Games open. I wish the athletes and their mentors successful starts, bright victories, and the spectators and fans – bright and unforgettable impressions"

Vladimir Putin President of Russia

About 4,000 athletes from more than 90 countries will take part in the Games. They will compete for awards in 27 sports at 17 sports venues in Kazan and Moscow.

On 13 June, the first competition day of the BRICS Games will determine the winners in five sports – synchronised swimming, sambo, wushu, weightlifting and artistic gymnastics. 

Badminton, tennis and table tennis tournaments will also start, while qualifying heats will be held in rowing. Russia's first gold medal at the Games was brought by three-time Olympic synchronised swimming champion Svetlana Kolesnichenko.

The BRICS Games are annual multi-sport competitions between the member states of the BRICS economic group. As a rule, the event is organised by the country chairing the group for a year. In 2024, Russia has this right, and it was decided to hold the BRICS Games in Kazan.

On 22 June, the BRICS sports ministers' meeting will bring together representatives of China, UAE, Egypt, Ethiopia and Iran, India, South Africa and Brazil.