During the XXV Winter Olympic Games taking place in Milan and Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy, Jackie Chan was presented with a Kazakh national chapan and a traditional taqiyah by Gennadiy Golovkin, the President of the National Olympic Committee of Kazakhstan, according to Qazinform News Agency. This special gesture honored the actor’s participation in the Olympic event and highlighted the cultural respect extended to him.
Jackie Chan, aged 71, notably took part in the Milano Cortina Olympic torch relay on December 22, 2025, which included a route through the historic Italian city of Pompeii.
Collaboration and Dialogue Between Kazakhstan and China’s Olympic Committees
Alongside the encounter with Jackie Chan, a working meeting was held in Milan between the leadership of the National Olympic Committees of Kazakhstan and China. Representing Kazakhstan were Gennadiy Golovkin and Secretary General Alimzhan Akayev, while the Chinese delegation included NOC Head Gao Zhidan and Secretary General Wu Jian.
During the discussion, participants underscored the strong bilateral ties and emphasized continued cooperation within the Olympic movement and broader Asian sports community. Highlights included plans for joint training camps focused on women’s boxing and both men’s and women’s diving programs.
Acknowledging Sporting Achievements and Future Events
Chinese representatives recognized Kazakhstan’s international successes, particularly celebrating Mikhail Shaidorov’s recent Olympic gold in figure skating. The two sides also discussed Kazakhstan’s selection as host for the 2029 Asian Winter Games in Almaty, noting the city’s strategic location and the prestige the games bring to the region. This transition from Harbin to Almaty to host the event was viewed as a meaningful sign of trust within the Asian sports network.
Commitment to Ongoing Cooperation in Athlete Development
The meeting concluded with a mutual reaffirmation of dedication to sustained dialogue and practical cooperation, especially focusing on athlete training programs. Both Kazakhstan and China reiterated intentions to foster collaboration that supports the growth and success of their sports communities.
“An icon. A legend. Jackie Chan,”
Gennadiy Golovkin, President of the National Olympic Committee of Kazakhstan
