The Kosovo Olympic Committee (KOC) has confirmed its support for the future of sport in the country by signing contracts with 47 young athletes under the “Olympic Shpresat” (Olympic Hopes) program.

With a total annual fund of 85,000 euros, this strategic investment aims to prepare a new generation of athletes for international competitions, with a special focus on the “Los Angeles 2028” Olympic Games.

The President of the KOC, Ismet Krasniqi, said that the committee’s main focus will always be on the athletes who are making Kosovo proud on the international stage.

“This year as well we signed the Olympic Hopes program. It was a record in terms of the number of athletes. Today, 47 athletes signed contracts for Olympic Hopes. These athletes come from 19 different sports federations, including both individual and team sports. The total value is around 85,000 euros per year, which is distributed among all these athletes. The Olympic Committee is committed to providing as much support as possible to our athletes, who are making us proud. Our goal and reason for being here is precisely the athletes,” Krasniqi told KosovaPress.

Wrestler Lorena Duraj, a medal winner at Balkan and European level, emphasized that support from the KOC and the sports community greatly helps strengthen sport.

“I hope that this year, with the support of the Olympic Committee, different federations, and the ministry, we will achieve even greater success. Our dreams are, of course, to succeed in international competitions, world championships, and the Olympic Games, like every athlete. Every athlete’s dream is to raise Kosovo’s flag high and show that we are proud to be from Kosovo and that we are progressing forward,” Duraj said.

Financial support is seen as a major motivation by the athletes themselves. Swimmer Dior Krasniqi, one of the beneficiaries, described this assistance as essential.

“It is very important and it gives hope, it gives motivation to continue further. My goal is to qualify for LA 2028, the Olympic Games in Los Angeles 2028. My dream is to achieve the Olympic standard and represent my country in the best possible way,” Krasniqi said.

The KOC’s ambitious plans do not stop here. Attention is also turning to the “Taranto 2026” Mediterranean Games, where Kosovo is expected to participate with a record number of 105 athletes. This step is considered crucial in preparations for 2030, when Pristina will host this prestigious event.