$700k Sponsorship Boost Positions Samoa Weightlifting for Historic Pacific Event

2026-03-26 - 02:24

Thursday 26 March 2026 Apia Samoa. The Samoa Weightlifting Federation has secured a significant boost ahead of the 2026 Universal Weightlifting Cup, with IBFC confirmed as naming rights sponsors with Government backing of SAT $700,000. The event – set to attract 70 countries, 500 athletes and 200 officials – will be the first of its kind to be staged in the Pacific region, hosted by Samoa at the Oceania Weightlifting Institute at Tuanaimato. Prime Minister Hon. La’aulialemalietoa Leuatea Polataivao Fosi Schmidt delivered the keynote address at the official launch of the sponsorship this morning. The Prime Minister highlighted the importance of the event for Samoa. “It is a pleasure to be here this morning for the launch of our naming rights sponsor for the IBFC Universal Cup 2026,” he said. “This is a proud moment for our country, said Laaulialemalietoa, noting that it presents a valuable opportunity to showcase Samoa to an international audience. “This gives Samoa the opportunity to welcome athletes and officials from around the world and to showcase what our country has to offer,” he said. Cabinet’s SAT $700,000 contribution, channelled through the Samoa International Finance Authority and IBFC, reflects Government’s commitment to supporting sport development and international events that elevate Samoa’s global profile. Launch of the IBFC Universal Cup 2026. The Prime Minister also acknowledged the continued growth and success of weightlifting in Samoa, commending the Samoa Weightlifting Federation for securing the hosting rights. “I wish to acknowledge the hard work of the President of the Samoa Weightlifting Federation, Tuaopepe Asiata Jerry Wallwork, for securing the rights to host the 2026 Universal Weightlifting Cup,” he said. He also offered words of encouragement to Samoa’s athletes. “To our athletes, you represent more than just yourselves – you represent our nation.” President of the Samoa Weightlifting Federation, Tuaopepe Asiata Jerry Wallwork, described the sponsorship announcement as a historic and pioneering milestone for Samoa and the wider Pacific region. “It is with great pride and deep gratitude that I stand before you today on this historic occasion – a pioneering event and the first of its kind to be hosted here in Samoa and across the Pacific and Oceania,” he said. Tuaopepe emphasised that the investment goes beyond financial support. “Your investment is not only financial – it is an investment in our people and the future of sport in Samoa and across Oceania. “It provides a platform for talent development, a pathway for our athletes, and a symbol of what can be achieved through strong partnerships between Government and sport.” Tuaopepe acknowledged the ongoing support of Government and local business sponsors. “O upu a le atunuu, ‘Ua le tasi ae ua lasi’.” The 2026 Universal Weightlifting Cup is expected to be one of the largest international sporting events hosted in Samoa, bringing significant exposure and opportunities for the country and the region.