TEHRAN - Iran's once-dominant weightlifting team face a critical juncture as it prepare for the 2024 World Weightlifting Championships in Bahrain. The team, which have seen a significant decline in recent years, are under intense pressure to deliver a strong performance and reverse their fortunes.

The team's struggles were evident at the 2024 Paris Olympics, where top lifters Ali Davoudi and Mir Mostafa Javadi failed to secure medals, finishing fourth and fifth, respectively. These disappointing results came after a relatively successful 2023 World Championships in Riyadh, where Javadi and Davoudi won two gold and one bronze medal. However, the team's overall performance has been on a downward trajectory.

The Iranian Weightlifting Federation has announced a 12-member squad for the 2024 World Weightlifting Championships in Bahrain, with a focus on younger athletes. Notable inclusions in the team include Mir Mostafa Javadi, Ali Davoudi, and several promising up-and-comers. However, the federation has also made several changes to the team, dropping experienced lifters in favor of younger talents.

The upcoming World Championships are seen as a litmus test for the president of Iran federation Sajjad Anoushiravani and head coach Navab Nasirshalal. Both have faced criticism for the team's recent poor performance. 

“We should not expect a miracle in Bahrain,” said Nasirshalal. “The situation is challenging, and it will take time to rebuild the team.”

The federation hopes that the younger generation of lifters can provide a spark and help return Iran to their former glory in weightlifting. A strong performance in Bahrain would not only boost the team's morale but also alleviate some of the pressure on the federation and coaching staff.

The 2024 World Weightlifting Championships will be held in Bahrain from Dec. 6 to 15.