This autumn, our country will once again host a major international sporting event. The 3rd CIS Games will take place in Azerbaijan from September 28 to October 8. For this purpose, based on the Decree of the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan, Ilham Aliyev, dated July 10, 2024, an Organizing Committee has been established.
On April 23, the first press conference dedicated to the 3rd CIS Games was held. During the conference, members of the media were provided with detailed information regarding the preparation stages of the event. It was noted that the Organizing Committee, in cooperation with the Ministry of Youth and Sports of the Republic of Azerbaijan and the Baku City Circuit Operations Company, continues its work on administrative issues, preparation of event venues, accreditation and accommodation of participants, among other key areas.
“A Victory in Every Heart!”
The 3rd CIS Games, held under the motto “A Victory in Every Heart!”, will be organized in seven regions of Azerbaijan — Ganja, Gabala, Shaki, Yevlakh, Khankendi, Goygol, and Mingachevir. The opening and closing ceremonies will take place at the Ganja City Stadium. Competitions in a total of 23 sports disciplines will be held across 12 sports facilities. Around 5,500 participants are expected to take part in the games. Along with CIS countries, other nations are also expected to be invited.
Website: cisgames2025.com
Additionally, during the press conference, the official website of the 3rd CIS Games was presented. The site will provide the latest updates regarding preparations, competition schedules, sports venues, and registration for volunteers and media representatives.
Babir and Leyla
The official mascots of the 3rd CIS Games have also been revealed — the energetic and friendly Babir and Leyla. Inspired by the Caucasian leopard, they are not only mascots but also vibrant symbols representing Azerbaijan’s rich nature, strength, and hospitality. The Caucasian leopard has inhabited the beautiful corners of our country since ancient times. This rare species is part of the “Big Five” program for the protection of five endangered animal species in the Caucasus, is listed in Azerbaijan’s “Red Book,” and categorized as “critically endangered” on the IUCN Red List.
Volunteer Program
It was also announced that the Volunteer Program for the Games has officially launched. Nearly 3,000 volunteers from the capital Baku and, especially, from the regions are expected to be involved in the 3rd CIS Games. Various initiatives are being carried out in the regions, including awareness meetings with youth. The main goal is to support the development of young people’s skills and to enhance their knowledge and experience on the international stage. As a reminder, the CIS Games were first hosted in 2021 in Kazan, Russia, and in 2023 in Minsk, the capital of Belarus. Azerbaijan’s selection as the host country for the 3rd CIS Games is no coincidence. It is yet another testament to the country’s growing reputation and capability in organizing large-scale international events.
