Asian Olympic Council honors leadership and sustained advocacy for Afghan athletes
Tashkent | By Bahara Rahimi
The Asian Olympic Council (OCA) has awarded its prestigious Order of Merit to Hafizullah Wali Rahimi, President of the National Olympic Committee of Afghanistan in exile, during the 46th OCA General Assembly held in Tashkent, Uzbekistan.
The distinction was granted in recognition of Rahimi’s effective leadership, long-term commitment to athlete development, and his continued efforts to advance and safeguard the Olympic Movement in Afghanistan under exceptionally challenging circumstances. The OCA cited his role in promoting Olympic values and maintaining institutional continuity as central to the decision.
In an official statement published on its platforms, the Asian Olympic Council described the award as an acknowledgment of Rahimi’s consistent and tireless support for Afghan athletes and his dedication to preserving Afghanistan’s presence within the regional and international Olympic community.
The honor reflects not only Rahimi’s personal contributions, but also underscores the broader narrative of resilience and perseverance within Afghan sport, at a time when institutional stability and international representation remain under pressure.