Blind Soccer International Tournament in Seattle
Kazakhstan Crowned Champions at FIFA World Cup 2026 Legacy Event
Blind Soccer International Tournament and Kazakhstan
The Blind Soccer International Tournament took place at Interbay Stadium in Seattle, USA on 23 and 24 May 2026. The event was hosted by SeattleFWC26 in partnership with the U.S. Association of Blind Athletes and Ballard FC / Salmon Bay FC, and formed part of the FIFA World Cup 2026 legacy programme aimed at advancing accessibility and elevating adaptive sport.
The tournament brought together three national teams: the United States, Peru and Kazakhstan. The competition opened with USA vs Peru, followed by USA vs Kazakhstan, with the tournament concluding with the decisive match between Peru and Kazakhstan.
Kazakhstan drew 0:0 with hosts USA before claiming the title with a 1:0 victory over Peru. The winning goal was scored by Bolat Zhanymkhan. The Kazakhstan goalkeeper also delivered an outstanding performance throughout the tournament, making a series of crucial saves that proved vital to the team's success.
Medals were presented at the Awards Ceremony by Peter Tomozawa, Chief Executive Officer of the Seattle FIFA World Cup 2026 Local Organizing Committee, and former Seattle Sounders player Kelyn Rowe.
Reflections from the Team
Head coach Anatoly Antipin was pleased with the team's performance overall, though he felt there was more to come in the early stages of the tournament.
"The desire to bring home the first trophy was, I think, the key factor. The boys fought to the last," said Antipin.
"The atmosphere was excellent we were welcomed at the highest level, shared experiences and had great communication both on and off the pitch."
He also highlighted the growing strength of blind football in Kazakhstan: "This victory is the result of the work we have done. There are now eight regions competing against each other in Kazakhstan, which has raised the level of competition and the amount of match practice. We have a lot of young talent, but we need more coverage and promotion of the sport."
For captain Kanat Akymbaev, the victory carries deep personal meaning.
"This is a great pride and a huge honour for me. We understand that we have made history in Kazakhstani blind football, because this is the first international trophy for our country. Behind this victory is the hard work of the whole team, the coaches, the guides and everyone who supported us," said Akymbaev.
He described trust as a cornerstone of blind football: "In blind football, trust between players is enormously important. Before the match against Peru, we knew it was a strong and experienced team. The key to victory was our commitment, discipline and working for each other. Nobody dropped out of the game – everyone fought to the last minute."
Akymbaev also had a message for those beginning their journey in blind football in Kazakhstan: "Never be afraid to start. Blind football is not just a sport it is a chance to believe in yourself, find friends, feel the team spirit and prove that limitations exist only in the mind. Blind football is developing in Kazakhstan, and I am sure there are many more victories ahead."
Para Football Foundation congratulates all participating teams on a fantastic tournament and extends special congratulations to Kazakhstan on this historic achievement. For the Kazakhstan Blind Football national team, this is their first-ever international trophy a milestone that reflects the dedication of the players, coaches and everyone supporting the development of blind football in the country.
