The BRICS Sports Ministers’ Meeting wrapped up in Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh, where everyone agreed on the BRICS Sports Joint Declaration. Events were conducted in August 22 and 23, 2026, marking a key moment under India's BRICS Chairship. Delegates and ministers from 11 BRICS nations attended these high-level events.
Union Minister for Youth Affairs and Sports Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya led the meetings, joined by Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu. The Youth Ministers' Meeting ended with a joint statement centering on youth development, innovation, education, skills, and entrepreneurship. On the sports side, the discussions focused on traditional sports, sports technology, and manufacturing cooperation, and concluded with the adoption of the sports joint declaration. There was more than just meetings—the program featured a “BRICS Friendship Sunday on Cycling” rally in Visakhapatnam, tying in with the Fit India movement, plus cultural galas and excursions to heritage spots like Thotlakonda.
Key Highlights of the Vizag BRICS Meetings
Under India’s leadership for BRICS in 2026, the event re-energized cooperation among member countries, putting the spotlight on youth development, inclusion, sports technology, and cultural exchange. One standout from the meeting was the plan to create a BRICS Working Group on Sports Technology. This group will drive collaboration in sports science, artificial intelligence, digital transformation, and boost athlete performance.
India also pitched the idea for a BRICS Sports Manufacturing Conclave, which got solid backing from the members. The first conclave is set for November in Udaipur. It will bring together manufacturers, investors, tech firms, and research groups to share expertise and spark innovation in the sports sector.
Another key initiative is the BRICS Traditional and Indigenous Sports Demonstration Games, scheduled for October in Ahmedabad. This event aims to spotlight the rich sporting heritage of BRICS countries and nurture deeper cultural and personal connections. During the meeting, Union Sports Minister Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya stressed the need for a real BRICS Sporting Partnership - one that goes beyond just declarations. He called for genuine collaboration through exchanging athletes and coaches, organizing joint competitions, and sharing knowledge. All in all, the BRICS Sports Ministers’ Meeting in Visakhapatnam laid the groundwork for long-term sports collaboration among member countries.
