The 6th Asian Savate Championship 2025, hosted by the Savate Association of India, was a landmark event held from 9th to 12th February 2025 in New Delhi. This event showcased the growing prominence of Savate in the Indian subcontinent and brought together participants and officials from six countries, fostering international collaboration and sportsmanship.
The championship began on 9th February with a seminar for referees and judges, where 25 officials from all participating nations received valuable insights from Dr. Hamidreza Hesaraki and Ms. Anna Khosravi. This was followed by the Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the Asian Savate Confederation, which was attended by dignitaries such as FISav President Dr. Julie Gabriel, Mr. Gilles Le Duigou (FISav Competition Manager), and representatives from all participating countries.
The championship matches were held from 10th to 12th February at the prestigious Talkatora Stadium, showcasing top-tier athleticism and competitive spirit. More than 250 athletes from six nations, including India, Uzbekistan, Iran, Chinese Taipei, Bangladesh, and Nepal took part. Several esteemed dignitaries graced the occasion, including Dr. Julie Gabriel (President, FISav), Dr. Hamidreza Hesaraki (President, Asian Savate Confederation), Mr. Gilles Le Duigou (FISav), and Ms. Anna Khosravi (Chair of Arbitration, Asian Savate Confederation). Indian guests included Mr. Jatothu Hussain (Member, NCST of India), Mr. Naresh Kumar (Director, Sports Authority of India), and Ms. Sashi Kala (Deputy Manager, LHO, Hyderabad). Mr. Mervyn Tan Legal Advisor to AIMS, also attended, lending further prestige to the event.
The championship aimed to promote Savate in India and provide athletes with an opportunity to compete on an international stage in their homeland. It also sought to elevate Savate’s profile globally by hosting a highly organized and successful event. Matches were conducted across various age groups and categories, ranging from ages 7 to 45, for both male and female participants. Both Assault and Combat disciplines were featured, with Combat limited to senior participants.
One of the key highlights was the inclusion of Indian cultural elements, which added vibrancy and showcased the country’s rich heritage. Performances included Himachal Pradesh’s traditional dance "Nati," alongside traditional presentations from Bihar and Maharashtra. These cultural programs not only entertained the audience but also strengthened the event’s theme of unity and collaboration.
The championship also featured several memorable matches, including outstanding performances by 10 12-year-old boys, whose skill and talent amazed everyone in attendance. Their exceptional display of Savate techniques highlighted the potential of young athletes and the bright future of the sport. Uzbekistan emerged as the top-performing nation, demonstrating extraordinary skill and coordination despite being a relatively new member of the Savate community. India secured second place, showcasing a blend of athletic excellence and cultural pride, while Iran’s consistent expertise earned them third place. Certificates were distributed to all players and officials during the event, recognizing their hard work and dedication.
The event was seamlessly organized, with meals provided to participants and officials at the stadium. Logistics ran smoothly, and no major challenges were reported. The championship drew significant media attention, with promotions conducted via social media, posters, and news outlets. The championship was also streamed live on YouTube, further enhancing its visibility. The presence of enthusiastic spectators further elevated the atmosphere, making the event a memorable experience for all. The championship’s success reinforced the position of Savate in India and Asia, fostering stronger bonds among participating nations and inspiring a new generation of athletes. The impact of the championship has been far-reaching. In India, states like Bihar and Delhi achieved official recognition for their Savate associations by their respective Olympic associations, and other states are following suit. The event also reinforced the bonds between participating nations and positioned Savate as a dynamic sport with a promising future in Asia.
In conclusion, the 6th Asian Savate Championship 2025 was a resounding success. The Savate Association of India expresses its heartfelt gratitude to all participants, officials, and supporters for their contributions to this historic event. The championship not only met its objectives but also set new benchmarks for the promotion and organization of Savate in the region. The Savate Association of India expresses its gratitude to all participants, officials, and supporters for their contributions to this memorable event. The 6th Asian Savate Championship 2025 not only achieved its objectives but also set a new benchmark for the promotion of Savate in the region.
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