Official Visit of IAU President Nadeem Khan to Ukraine Marks New Stage of International Cooperation.
IAU President Nadeem Khan made his first official visit to Ukraine at the invitation of Olha Saladukha (President of the Ukrainian Athletics Federation) and Natalia Chetova (IAU Communications Committee) . The visit strengthened international cooperation and supported the growth of ultrarunning in Ukraine.
The visit took place in the Transcarpathian region alongside the Ukrainian 6/12/24‑Hour National Championships in Khust. Before the event, Mr. Khan met in Mukachevo with leaders of the Ukrainian Athletics Federation, including President Olha Saladukha, General Secretary Oleksii Kasianov, Head State Coach Oleksii Serdiuchenko, Endurance Coach Ievhen Hutsol, and regional federation representatives. Discussions focused on the development of ultrarunning, future joint initiatives with neighbouring countries, and strengthening cooperation with the IAU.
Saladukha noted that the meeting offered “a valuable exchange of ideas and a foundation for closer cooperation.” Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to expanding Ukraine’s role in the international ultrarunning community.
Mr. Khan also met with regional authorities, including the mayors of Uzhhorod, Mukachevo, and Khust, and the deputy head of the Transcarpathian regional administration. These talks highlighted the importance of local institutional support and the role of sport—especially ultrarunning—in community resilience, health promotion, and regional development.
Cities such as Uzhhorod, Mukachevo, and Khust were recognized for their potential to become key ultrarunning hubs in Eastern Europe.
Before the national championships, an informal gathering of ultrarunners was held in Khust, organized by Andrii Kozyr. Participants included leading athletes such as Olena Shevchenko, silver medalist at the 2023 24‑Hour World Championships. Mr. Khan praised Ukrainian athletes for their resilience and continued success despite national challenges, emphasizing the importance of promoting all ultrarunning formats—from timed events to mountain ultratrails.
He also highlighted opportunities to join IAU educational programs covering technical, medical, and nutrition topics. These courses support athletes, coaches, officials, and medical staff, helping raise standards and ensure athlete welfare.
Mr. Khan noted Ukraine’s strong potential to expand its international presence through elite performances and by hosting high‑quality events. He reaffirmed the IAU’s readiness to support development at all levels, from amateur participation to elite competition.
“I would like to extend my deepest appreciation to President Olga Saladukah, members of the Ukranian Athletics Federstion and Natalia Chetova from the IAU Communications Committee for their invitation to visit Ukraine. I witnessed firsthand the commitment of the sporting community given the current circumstances.
The level of performances being achieved, the caliber of athletes and the dedication of federation and training staff is simply exemplary. My sincere gratitude goes out to President Saladukha and her team to keeping it going strong during these challenging times.”
Nadeem Khan,
IAU President
This historic visit underscores the IAU’s commitment to its member nations through cooperation, education, and long‑term development. It also highlights Ukraine’s determination to maintain and grow its sporting ecosystem, strengthen international partnerships, and secure its place within the global ultrarunning community.
Thanks to
Natalia Chetova
IAU Communications Committee.
