For the first time in its history, Kazakhstan will host a stage of the FIE Epee World Cup. The prestigious international tournament will take place from 26 to 29 March at the QAZAQSTAN Athletics Sports Complex in Astana. More than 600 athletes from 96 countries are expected to compete on the piste.

The competitions will be held among men and women in both individual and team events. The stage is included in the official calendar of the International Fencing Federation and is traditionally hosted in leading sports centres around the world, including Switzerland, Germany, the United Arab Emirates and Canada. This year, Kazakhstan has joined the list of host countries for the first time.

The selection of Astana as the host city reflects recognition of the high organisational standards and the systematic work carried out by the national fencing federation. Hosting the World Cup stage is expected to provide a significant impetus for the development of fencing in Central Asia and will strengthen Kazakhstan’s position as a new hub for major international sporting events. Notably, Kazakhstan has become the first country in the region to receive the right to host fencing competitions of this level.

Members of the national team competing in the tournament will include Ruslan Kurbanov, Elmir Alimzhanov, Yerlik Sertay, Kirill Prokhodov and Vadim Sharlaimov. In total, up to 30 Kazakh athletes will participate in the tournament and compete for medals across various disciplines.