Dr. Rashmi Saluja Champions Sport Beyond Borders at Samara Sports Forum 2025
November 2025 - Russia
Dr. Rashmi Saluja, President of the Curling Federation of India (CFI), participated as a distinguished panelist at the prestigious Samara Sports Forum 2025, held on 5 November, 2025, at the Solidarity Samara Arena in Samara, Russia. Bringing together sports ministers, federation leaders, athletes, and prominent representatives from the international sporting community, the forum explored the evolving role of sport as a powerful force for international cooperation, peace, mutual understanding, and unity. Dr. Saluja contributed to the high-level session, “Sport Beyond Borders: New Horizons of Interaction,” sharing her perspective on the universal and unifying power of sport.
Emphasizing that sport transcends political boundaries and geopolitical differences, Dr. Saluja highlighted the importance of preserving sport as a neutral and inclusive platform where athletes can compete, connect, and realise the dreams for which they have dedicated years of their lives. She underscored that athletes should not be deprived of the opportunity to participate and experience the defining moments of their sporting journeys because of circumstances beyond the sporting arena. Describing sport as a global industry with immense social, economic, and cultural significance, she called for greater recognition of its ability to foster dialogue and bring people and nations closer, irrespective of geopolitical developments.
As President of the Curling Federation of India, Dr. Saluja also expressed her strong support for greater inclusivity in international sporting competitions and advocated for opportunities that enable athletes from all sporting nations to participate on the global stage. She acknowledged Russia’s significant contribution to the world of sport, not only through its enduring sporting spirit and accomplished athletes but also through its investment in sporting infrastructure and the development of competitive sporting ecosystems. Her participation at the Samara Sports Forum reaffirmed her commitment to promoting sports diplomacy, international sporting cooperation, and a future where sport continues to serve as a bridge between nations and generations.