19 December 2025 - “Champions of the Golden Valley” tells the remarkable story of skier Alishah Farhang as he returns to the majestic mountains of Bamyan after narrowly missing out on becoming Afghanistan’s first Winter Olympian. Farhang’s determination on the global stage, and his efforts to create a unique ski race to bring together a divided region, sparked a vibrant homegrown ski culture that brought inspiration and joy to the community. The story is a testament to the universal power of sport to bring people together, inspire peace and create a shared purpose.
“Champions of the Golden Valley” is available to watch exclusively on Olympics.com from 19 December.
“We are proud to offer a home for this beautiful film on Olympics.com,” said Yiannis Exarchos, Chief Executive Officer of Olympic Broadcasting Services and Executive Director of Olympic Channel Services. “Champions of the Golden Valley is a powerful story of resilience and hope, and a reminder of the unique ability of sport to bring people together. With its stunning cinematography and deeply engaging storytelling, it’s a perfect fit for us.”
Growing up skiing in the snow-capped mountains of Bamyan, Farhang dreamed of one day competing at the Olympic Winter Games, and tried to qualify for PyeongChang 2018. After training and competing in Europe, Farhang fostered a ski programme in his homeland. He organised an annual ski competition, inviting aspiring athletes of all ages, abilities and villages – often with second-hand gear and wooden skis – to the slopes. This community defied barriers and embodied the Olympic spirit: uniting people in peaceful competition and inspiring motivation and meaning.
Filmed mostly in Afghanistan before 2021, the documentary is interspersed with Farhang’s narration from current-day Germany, where he has lived as a refugee with his family since fleeing his homeland. Now heartbreakingly and forcibly separated from the skiing programme and its community of aspiring young athletes, he still dreams of a future where Bamyan’s resilient young skiers might one day get the chance to compete at the Olympic Winter Games.
“Champions of the Golden Valley” has been screened at more than 60 festivals, earning over 40 jury prizes and audience awards, including 18 grand prizes. Olympics.com is making “Champions of the Golden Valley” available to watch for free across the world from 19 December, as well as highlighting this incredible, powerful story that embodies the Olympic values across its digital platforms.
Director Ben Sturgulewski said: “We are honoured Olympics.com is sharing this story with audiences around the world. The heart of this film is about connection – how sport can unite people, uplift the next generation and spark hope in places where it’s needed most – something that feels especially meaningful today.”
