Since Ilgar Rahimov assumed the presidency of the International Blind Sports Federation (IBSA) in July 2023, the organization has embarked on an ambitious reform process to overcome years of mismanagement, lack of transparency, and absence of sponsors. In his first statements as president, Rahimov pledged to transform an institution in crisis, and 14 months later, the challenges remain enormous.
One of the main inherited issues, according to Rahimov, was the confusion between governance and management roles. “Elected officials not only determined policies but also implemented them, which affected transparency,” he explained during a talk over the weekend. The lack of an adequate financial system, with no audits or formal accounting records, left IBSA without sponsors and with little trust from members and fans.
ADVANCES IN MANAGEMENT
In just over a year, Rahimov has implemented significant changes in IBSA’s organizational structure. For the first time, the entity has a CEO and a team of specialized managers in key areas such as sports, classification, anti-doping, finance, media, and marketing. Additionally, six regular board meetings have been held, marking a shift toward collegial and transparent decision-making.
“Today, all decisions in IBSA are made collectively,” affirmed the president. This approach has laid the groundwork for a complete restructuring of the federation, including drafting a new constitution and granting greater independence to sports committees.
CLASSIFICATION: IBSA’S “ACHILLES’ HEEL”
One of Rahimov’s top priorities has been reforming the classification system, a cornerstone of the Paralympic movement. “The classification system was chaotic, and I publicly referred to it as IBSA’s Achilles’ heel,” he remarked. From meetings with the International Paralympic Committee (IPC) to preparing a new classification team, efforts are underway to ensure clean and fair sports.
The IPC has proposed centralizing the visual classification system, a measure IBSA fully supports. “We are eliminating distrust in our sports and creating conditions for fair competitions,” Rahimov added, highlighting positive progress ahead of the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games.
FUTURE PLANS AND THE IBSA GAMES
One of IBSA’s priorities is organizing the next World Games in 2027, including new disciplines such as blind swimming and athletics. Additionally, hosts for the 2031 and 2035 Games are expected to be announced, ensuring the continuity of these events.
“These were great Games in Paris,” Rahimov stated, praising the success of goalball, blind football, and judo competitions. With record attendance and packed stadiums, the event showcased the impact of Paralympic athletes. Now, attention shifts to the Los Angeles 2028 Games, aiming to continue inspiring the world through sport.
TOWARD A RENEWED IBSA
The path to a modern IBSA is not without its challenges, but Rahimov remains optimistic: “We have achieved a lot, but much remains to be done.” With an eye on 2025, when a new constitution will be adopted, the federation aims to establish itself as a model of transparency and professionalism in blind sports.
IBSA’s transformation will not only serve as an example for other sports organizations but also stand as a testament to the power of sport to unite, inspire, and transcend barriers.