New Year Address of the FIAS President Vasily Shestakov

Dear Colleagues, Team-Mates, and Friends!

The year 2018 that has become historical for our sport is coming to an end. 

It was marked by the 80th Anniversary of SAMBO. SAMBO came to this date as a truly mature sport, the nation's favorite that grows increasingly popular all over the globe. 

Most definitely, the highlight of this year was the provisional recognition of the International SAMBO Federation granted by the International Olympic Committee. This stupendous achievement came as a result of our joint efforts, active work of athletes, coaches, referees, medical staff, employees of national and continental federations, and the entire SAMBO community. 

The passing year was also remembered by a number of significant events: thus, for the first time ever, SAMBO was included in the program of the Asian Games held in Indonesia. Also for the first time, the World Schools SAMBO Championships took place in Russia. The World Championships in Romania, the Youth Championships in Georgia, the World Championships among Students and Cadets in Serbia were all staged on a high professional level. 

But, despite these outstanding successes, the main part of our work is still ahead. Today, we face new challenges, such as obtaining the permanent recognition by the IOC and inclusion of SAMBO in the Olympic Games program. To achieve this, we ought to conquer new heights and win even more hearts of sports enthusiasts worldwide. And I am quite confident that we can do it! 

In 2019, the largest multi-sport competition presenting our sport will take place in Minsk (the Republic of Belarus). This will be the II European Games. In the coming year, we will keep striving to get into the program of various multi-sport events.

With all my heart, I congratulate the sambists of the entire world on the approaching Christmas and New Year. I wish the coming year to become the time of accomplishments, fulfilled expectations, and steady progress that brings you most pleasant surprises and makes your dreams come true. 

To good health, happy spirits, new wins and records, family warmth and well-being! 

Merry Christmas to you! Happy New Year!