Bishkek, March 15, 2026. /Kabar/. Kyrgyz President Sadyr Zhaparov received on March 14 Raffaele Chiulli, President of the International Powerboating Union (UIM).
According to the administration's press service, the discussion focused on the further development of cooperation in this sport, as well as the possibility of holding competitions under the auspices of the UIM in Kyrgyzstan.
The head of state emphasized that the union's readiness to host the world championship in Kyrgyzstan is a significant event, especially given that in recent years the country has been actively developing international cooperation in sports, tourism, and hosting major international events.
In this regard, Sadyr Zhaparov emphasized that the Issyk-Kul region has two airports – in Karakol and Tamchy. Both have international status and welcome tourists. Furthermore, construction is underway on the lakeshore of five-star and a seven-star hotel.
In turn, Raffaele Chiulli noted that the World Cup represents a global festival of powerboating, including the World Championship in Royal Powerboat Racing in the most prestigious F1H2O class, as well as demonstration races in jet skiing, motor surfing, and hydroflyboarding. He added that competitions have previously been held in China, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Indonesia, Saudi Arabia, Vietnam, and other countries, emphasizing that water racing is one of the most spectacular and exciting sports in the world, broadcast live in over 86 countries and reaching over 900 million viewers.
Concluding the meeting, President Sadyr Zhaparov and President of the International Motorboating Union (UIM), Raffaele Chiulli, expressed confidence that hosting the UIM F1H20 Formula 1 World Cup, which will be held in Central Asia for the first time, will not only showcase Issyk-Kul's enormous tourism potential but will also serve as an effective tool for promoting the national brand internationally.