Jean-Claude Van Damme expected at Issyk-Kul for F1H2O Grand Prix
Hollywood icon Jean-Claude Van Damme is anticipated to travel to Kyrgyzstan to witness the high-speed spectacle of international powerboat racing. Organisers of the upcoming sporting showcase revealed that logistical preparations are already actively underway to facilitate the renowned actor’s journey.
Aibek Abylkasymov, President of the Water Motor Sports Federation of Kyrgyzstan, announced during a media briefing that a private aircraft has been reserved in Madrid. The transport remains on standby, ready to fly the action film star to Central Asia as soon as final confirmation is secured. While definitive clearance from the actor is pending, local sports administrators remain optimistic about his presence at the lakeside venue.
Historic debut on Lake Issyk-Kul
This high-profile celebrity interest coincides with the inaugural UIM F1H2O Grand Prix of Kyrgyzstan, scheduled to run from July 31 to August 2, 2026. Set near the village of Baet along the scenic shoreline of Lake Issyk-Kul, the tournament marks a watershed moment for regional sports tourism by bringing the premier powerboat racing series to Central Asia for the first time.
Positioned 1,607 metres above sea level, the mountain lake also establishes a remarkable benchmark as the highest-altitude race location in the entire history of the championship. Lightweight carbon-fibre catamarans capable of surging past speeds of 220 km/h will compete fiercely across a 1,929-metre circuit marked by seven turning buoys. Organisers anticipate that the televised event will beam live broadcasts to an international audience exceeding 250 mln viewers across more than 40 countries.
Expanding celebrity guest lists and festival events
Beyond Jean-Claude Van Damme, federation representatives disclosed that formal invitations were dispatched to several other prominent global figures. Legendary martial artist Jackie Chan was repeatedly invited, though his heavily constrained professional schedule leaves his attendance status uncertain. In addition, football star Cristiano Ronaldo received overtures regarding future championship rounds, though his immediate participation has not been confirmed.
Delegations and racing teams representing international syndicates such as Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Atlantic and Stromoy began arriving in the country on July 25. Complementing the high-octane sporting programme, spectators will experience an extensive lakeside festival featuring musical performances, JetSurf demonstrations and cultural showcases designed to introduce international visitors to Kyrgyz traditions.
Ticket sales and fan zone access details have been widely publicised across national platforms, ensuring that both families and motorsport enthusiasts can participate in the festivities safely. As the opening practice sessions approach, anticipation continues to build across the republic for what promises to be a landmark sporting spectacle.
