This year, the Seal of Večernjak in the Sports category went to Ismail Barlov, a young athlete, as a crown of extraordinary successes achieved in 2024, which was an extremely demanding but also a triumphant year for him.

Despite health challenges, Ismail showed incredible strength and determination, breaking down all obstacles on his way. He won a gold medal at the European Championship, while he returned from the Paralympic Games in Paris with a silver medal. Last year, he also received the state award for sports as the youngest athlete. His achievements are not only an inspiration to young athletes, but also to the entire sports community in Bosnia and Herzegovina.

At the award-presentation ceremony, Ismail expressed his gratitude to his coach, parents, friends and club colleagues who supported him on his journey. He also emphasized that the award meant a lot to him, because 2024 was an extremely challenging but also successful year.

Ismail’s story is a proof that with effort, dedication and support, extraordinary results can be achieved, regardless of obstacles. Ismail Barlov is now, at the age of just 14, one of the youngest medal winners for Bosnia and Herzegovina, and his journey is just beginning. The Federal Ministry of Culture and Sports joins in congratulating Ismail and wishing him many more medals and other awards.

“Well done, our dear Ismail, we are all proud of you and your successes!”