WANA (Aug 17) – The National Geography Olympiad Team of the Islamic Republic of Iran delivered a strong performance at the 22nd International Geography Olympiad (iGeo 2026) in Istanbul, securing one bronze medal and three honorable mentions.

 

Held from August 11 to 17, 2026, in Istanbul, Turkey, the prestigious international competition brought together more than 180 participants representing over 50 countries.

 

Among the global field of competitors, the Iranian squad distinguished itself through notable academic performance across the event’s rigorous examination phases.

 

Additionally, the Iranian team achieved a historic milestone in the competition’s Poster Presentation category, taking first place globally for the first time in the country’s participation history.

 

In the individual standings, Helia Khodabandehlou earned a bronze medal, while teammates Artina Heidari, Setayesh Haghnazari, and Sana Karbalaei were each awarded international diplomas of honor.