• Recognizing exceptional contributions in sports on a global scale.
• Supporting talent development and international collaboration.
• Promoting ethics, fair play, and sustainability in sport.
• Using sports as a tool for cultural diplomacy, peace-building, and social progress.

FIESSA was founded as an independent, non-governmental organization in 1981 to recognize and honor elite athletes and outstanding individuals in global sports. The idea of establishing FIESSA was first proposed by Dr. Jacques Rogge, but during the 1980 Summer Olympic Games in Moscow, it was not approved by Juan Antonio Samaranch, the then President of the International Olympic Committee, who believed that FIESSA had the potential to go beyond the Olympic framework and become a globally recognized authority.

The association continued its activities independently and outside the Olympic Games framework. During the 2008 Summer Olympic Games in Beijing, when Dr. Jacques Rogge was the IOC President, he still opposed formally converting the association into a federation. However, the topic was discussed in meetings outside the official Olympic sessions among members, international federation presidents, and participating countries. Following a vote, the association was officially transformed into the International Federation of Elite Sports and Dr. Hamid Ansarifar was elected as the President.

Since then, FIESSA has collaborated with over 70 international sports organizations to support elite athletes, coaches, and referees while promoting professional and ethical standards in global sports.

• Organizing awards and recognition programs for outstanding individuals.
• Developing specialized structures within international federations to support elite athletes.
• Collaborating with national and international organizations to enhance sports development.
• Advocating for gender equality, human rights, and sustainable development through sports.

• Outstanding Achievement: Exceptional accomplishments in athletic or professional domains.
• Global Impact: Contributions to the growth and development of sports worldwide.
• Professionalism and Ethics: Exemplary conduct and fair play.
• Innovation and Advancement: Pioneering methods or strategies in sports.
• Sustained Impact: Long-term contributions to sports excellence.

• Excellence in sports performance and leadership.
• Integrity, fairness, and transparency in all activities.
• Inclusion and diversity, uniting athletes and communities worldwide.
• Collaboration with global organizations to strengthen the role of sports in society.