Image: IOC Abhijit Bhattacharya, a former captain of the Indian men’s national volleyball team, has been named the Global Winner of the 2025 International Olympic Committee (IOC) Gender Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (GEDI) Champions Award for his impactful grassroots initiatives in rural India, ensuring equal access and visibility for girls and boys in sport. Alongside the global award, five continental winners have also been recognised: Africa: Racheal Kundananji, Zambia
