U15 Gymnasiade Athletes Welcomed by Iran’s Supreme Leader

May 27, Tehran, Iran – A delegation of Iranian student-athletes who achieved success at the ISF U15 Gymnasiade 2025 in Zlatibor, Serbiawas recently received by Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, the Supreme Leader of the Islamic Republic of Iran. The meeting took place during a gathering with educators and teachers and marked a moment of national recognition for the achievements of Iran’s youth in school sport.

The student-athletes, coaches, and leaders were introduced as part of the Iranian Student Caravan of Hope, a delegation composed of medal-winning representatives of Iran’s school sport movement, organised under the leadership of the Iran School Sport Federation. The athletes' accomplishments in both competitive and cultural dimensions of the Gymnasiade were highlighted as part of an exhibition on the achievements of Iran’s Ministry of Education.

During the meeting, Ayatollah Khamenei expressed warm appreciation for the students’ efforts. After engaging with the athletes about their disciplines and medals, he said:

“Thank you for bringing joy to the people of Iran. The future of Iran belongs to you.”

The audience concluded with a commemorative photograph, capturing a powerful moment of connection between the nation’s leadership and its promising youth. The Supreme Leader’s personal engagement with the student-athletes symbolised both national pride and support for the country’s next generation.

This meeting reflects the strong role of school sport in shaping future leaders and highlights the value placed on youth development and education by the highest levels of leadership.