Month: October 2025

• The Bulat Utemuratov Foundation has teamed up with the prestigious instiutions of UC Berkeley, IFAS, and Korkyt Ata University to trial a new ‘E-seed’ technology on the dried Aral seabed.

The Aral seabed will be the site of an ambitious new ecological project – which shall also feature input from the Bulat Utemuratov Foundation – as researchers aim to restore one of the planet’s worst-affected environmental areas.

The four parties involved in the project include Berkeley University from California, the Executive Directorate of the International Fund for Saving the Aral Sea (IFAS) in Kazakhstan, and a team hailing from the country’s own Korkyt Ata Kyzylorda University. A memorandum has now been signed-off, meaning that the hard work can start imminently.

Photo credit: Bulat Utemuratov Foundation

Issues with the Aral Sea

Just 10% of the Aral Sea’s original surface area remains. This gradual erosion has caused significant environmental issues, as the huge salt marshes uncovered by the drying planes release toxic materials into the air. These particles are then spread for thousands of miles, and have even been discovered as far north as the Arctic. The dust also pollutes soil and water, raising major concerns about the standards of food production and the general health of those breathing in contaminated air.

The Foundation’s pilot project aims to support long-term restoration of the Aral seabed ecosystem through field testing of UC Berkeley’s innovative E-seed technology. The method uses drones to distribute self-burying seeds in biodegradable material, enabling rapid and large-scale planting with higher seed survival rates and minimal labor costs.

Bulat Utemuratov Foundation backs ‘futuristic’ restoration plan

Through the deployment of pioneering ‘E-seed technology’, self-burying seeds will be dropped by drones across the Aral seabed. Cocooned by a biodegradable shell, the move promises smaller labor requirements, and a better chance of the seeds reaching a full growth cycle. UC Berkeley are behind the technology, and the Foundation is aiming to restore the troubled ecosystem in the years ahead.

“The Aral Sea is one of the world’s most pressing environmental challenges. We are launching a project to help limit salt and toxic dust, reduce health risks, and advance sustainable restoration of the Aral seabed. This technology can be applied in different environments, potentially supporting the restoration of degraded land and reforestation in areas affected by desertification or wildfires,” said Ainur Karbozova, CEO of the Bulat Utemuratov Foundation.

The project supports Kazakhstan’s chairmanship of the International Fund for Saving the Aral Sea (IFAS) for 2024-2026 under President Tokayev, which prioritizes extending green spaces across more than one million hectares of the dried seabed.

A test planting on a one-hectare site will begin in Spring 2026. If survival rates exceed 20%, the second phase in 2027 will expand planting across 50 hectares of the dried seabed. By 2040, it aims to stabilize the ecosystem and improve the microclimate. The pilot project cost is estimated at USD 600,000.

SOURCE: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/bulat-utemuratov-foundation-launches-nvironmental-project-to-restore-the-aral-seabed-in-kazakhstan-302599907.html

Almaty, Kazakhstan – 24 October 2025 – At the recent EUROBAK Awards 2025 (European Business Association of Kazakhstan), the Bulat Utemuratov Foundation was named a double winner. Previously they received the Foundation’s EUROBAK Award in 2024 for their contribution to Kazakhstan’s infrastructure development, through the construction of the new airport terminal in Kyzylorda.

Photo Credit – Bulat Utemuratov Foundation

‘Everyone can thrive’ – Ainur Karbozova

The Foundation received top honors for a corporate responsibility project and advocating social awareness. This highlights the Foundation’s sustained dedication to building inclusive areas and developing social development all across Kazakhstan. In the Corporate Social Responsibility category, the Foundation was recognized for its construction of a state‑of‑the‑art multifunctional community center in the town of Kosshy which opened in March 2025.

The 8,500‑square‑meter cultural and sports complex was built to accommodate up to 1,000 visitors at one time. This $20 million facility was gifted to the citizens of Kosshy and transferred free of charge to the city administration. This hub caters for people with disabilities of all ages, combining sports, educational, and leisure facilities under one roof. Amongst the amenities, you will find a cinema, lecture halls, conference rooms, creative studios, coworking areas, a library and a sports hall. Alongside this there are several outdoor facilities, giving children the opportunity to choose from a wide range of clubs free of charge.

Bulat Utemuratov Foundation receives international plaudits

The second award recognized the Foundation’s nationwide Autism Awareness Month campaign, which intended to increase public awareness of autism spectrum disorders (ASD), promote inclusion, and support families raising children with ASD. The initiative builds on more than a decade of work in this area, during which the Foundation has established 13 “Asyl Miras” Autism Centers across Kazakhstan, offering free, evidence‑based support.

Ainur Karbozova, CEO of the Bulat Utemuratov Foundation, commented: “Winning two EUROBAK Awards this year is an important recognition of our mission to create opportunities and inclusion for people across Kazakhstan. The Kosshy community center and our nationwide autism awareness campaign reflect the values we stand for: bringing people together, breaking down barriers, and building spaces, both physical and social, where everyone can thrive.”

SOURCE: https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/bulat-utemuratov-foundation-wins-two-eurobak-awards-2025-for-social-responsibility-and-inclusion-302593928.html

• The International Tennis Federation (ITF) has increased Kazakhstan’s voting allocation from seven to nine – a move described as ‘rightful’ by Bulat Utemuratov.
• This places Kazakhstan in the ITF’s second-highest membership tier, alongside Italy, Spain, Canada, Switzerland, China and Japan
• The decision, supported by 91% of delegates, reflects Kazakhstan’s success in tennis development and participation

Photo Credit: Kazakshtan Tennis Federation

Astana, Kazakhstan – 22 October 2025: Kazakhstan has recently been recognised among the world’s top tennis nations. This news was announced by The Kazakhstan Tennis Federation (KTF). The International Tennis Federation (ITF) made the decision to increase the country’s voting control from seven to nine votes at its Annual General Meeting (AGM) this year.

“Kazakhstan has joined the ranks of world’s strongest tennis powers” – Bulat Utemuratov

The verdict, supported by 91% of delegates representing 200 national federations, elevates Kazakhstan to the second-highest of the ITF’s six membership levels, together with leading tennis countries. These include Italy, Czechia, Canada, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, China and Japan. By moving to nine votes, Kazakhstan is now one of a select group of around 15 countries at the ITF’s second-highest influence level. Voting allocations are incredibly important to determine each federation’s formal influence on tennis development worldwide.

Bulat Utemuratov, President of the Kazakhstan Tennis Federation, said:
“The international assembly of national tennis federations has increased Kazakhstan’s votes on the strength of an independent assessment of tennis development in our country, our junior results, senior national team results, participation base and infrastructure. Kazakhstan has rightfully joined the ranks of the world’s strongest tennis powers.”

Tennis participation in Kazakhstan

Currently, there are more than 17,500 children who regularly train and compete countrywide. There are over 250 competitions staged in the country every year, including 40+ international events.

There is continued investment in inclusive pathways such as wheelchair tennis which has developed greatly. National squads compete consistently across the Davis Cup and Billie Jean King Cup. Helpfully, Kazakhstan provides world-class services and hosts events that strengthen both elite and grassroots performance within tennis.

Kazakhstan’s emergence as a new tennis hub has transformed the country’s sporting landscape. From grassroot programs to international tournaments, a long-term strategy is paying off, though its future depends on how firmly those foundations hold.

ALMATY, Kazakhstan, Oct. 20 (Xinhua) — Walking onto court at the ATP Almaty Open, Beibit Zhukayev feels more than home advantage. “It’s always amazing to come home and play a home event,” he says. “I try to make the fans proud of me, my parents, my family. There’s a lot of work behind me, a lot that I’ve done in the past ten or fifteen years.”

That sense of pride is shared by a growing number of Kazakh players who are now competing regularly on the professional circuit. In a country once better known for wrestling and boxing, tennis has quietly become one of the fastest-developing sports in this corner of Central Asia.

BUILDING FROM THE GROUND UP

When Bulat Utemuratov took over the Kazakhstan Tennis Federation (KTF) in 2007, he inherited little more than a name. “The tennis federation didn’t even exist as a legal body,” he recalls. “It was bankrupt, with big debts and suspended ITF membership. I had to start from scratch.”

Under his leadership, Kazakhstan has invested hundreds of millions of dollars into courts, coaches and junior programs. The federation has built 39 international-standard centers, many with indoor facilities to combat the harsh winters. “We built infrastructure in all 18 regions,” Utemuratov says. “Then we created Team Kazakhstan to bring the best juniors together, give them full support, and build a tournament calendar so each age group had enough events.”

The results are visible. Kazakhstan now fields competitive Davis Cup and Billie Jean King Cup teams, has a Grand Slam champion in Elena Rybakina, and has established ATP and WTA tournaments on home soil.

But the federation’s success has relied heavily on Utemuratov’s personal investment – over 200 million U.S. dollars of his own money, by his estimate. That concentration of resources that has raised quiet questions about long-term sustainability once he steps aside.

FROM IMPORTS TO HOMEGROWN TALENT

Some critics have dismissed Kazakhstan’s rise as reliant on importing players who switched allegiance from Russia – such as Rybakina, and the country’s top male player Alexander Bublik – but Utemuratov rejects the idea that this is a shortcut to success.

“Before they came here, they hadn’t achieved significant results,” he says. “Rybakina was about to quit tennis before we gave her a chance. She’s said many times her success is connected to Kazakhstan’s support.”

Now, however, the federation can point to a pipeline of homegrown talent. “It’s definitely becoming more popular,” says 17-year-old Amir Omarkhanov. “When I was traveling around the country, there were players, but not many were moving up to the pro tour. Now I can see many of our kids in juniors are moving up. It’s nice to see our players competing on big stages.”

Omarkhanov credits the federation for clearer pathways. “It’s better now. Players can see how the system works – what kind of coaches or places suit them. You can even stay in Central Asia and develop here before going to Europe.”

That progress is echoed by Alex Shevchenko, who switched allegiance from Russia last year. “My mother is Kazakh, and I always liked being here,” he says. “Kazakhstan helped me when others didn’t. Every year I see more people getting involved in tennis – new centers, more kids. When I do a masterclass, there’s a huge line of kids waiting to play.”

A TOURNAMENT AND A TEST

For the Almaty Open’s tournament advisor, Attila Richter, the city’s ATP 250 event has become both a showcase and a proving ground. “We started in 2020 with just six weeks’ notice during COVID,” he recalls. “Since then it’s grown five steps every year.”

The event’s move from Astana to Almaty in 2024 has also given it a bigger stage and audience. “Almaty is the economic center of the country,” Richter says. “More people, more companies, more flights – it just made sense.”

He credits the federation’s consistency for the tournament’s professional reputation. “They’ve built 16 regional centers, hundreds of coaches, full junior pathways. Honestly, I’ve seen many federations grow, but Kazakhstan’s progress is extraordinary. They just have to keep the momentum.”

GLOBAL RECOGNITION

Visiting professionals have taken notice. “I have great memories from last year,” says 2024 champion Karen Khachanov. “The tournament is organized really well. If you compare it with European ones, for an indoor event, this can be a contender.”

Kazakhstan’s success stories — Rybakina, Bublik, and a growing cast of young players — are reshaping the country’s sporting identity. “It’s phenomenal,” Shevchenko says. “Every year we’re seeing big improvements, and I think we’ll keep improving.”

Even as tennis climbs to become one of Kazakhstan’s most popular sports, Utemuratov remains focused on the long game. “We now have several levels of national teams,” he says. “We identify everyone who has potential from an early age and help them grow. Strategically, we stay on the same principles, but it still requires financing.”

Whether that system can thrive beyond one man’s stewardship is an open question. For now, though, Kazakhstan’s rise on the world tennis stage looks less like a temporary surge and more like a lasting serve. 

SOURCE: Xinhua / https://english.news.cn/20251020/5c1867eea6284e22a81de0825854fca3/c.html

Making his Almaty debut this week, the Italian opens up about the highs and lows of a sophomore year on tour.

By Matt Fitzgerald

Published Oct 16, 2025

ALMATY—The resident ‘admin’ of the ATP Tour is on the way up to feeling like his normal outgoing, expressive self again.

Flavio Cobolli recently found himself stuck in a rut, struggling to compete with the joy and fire that catapulted him inside the Top 20 earlier this year. After retiring from his third-round match at the US Open with compatriot Lorenzo Musetti, the Italian dropped three of four matches ahead of his Almaty Open debut.

“I didn’t enjoy so much the last three, four weeks. It was a tough year. The calendar is very full,” he shares with TENNIS.com. “It’s not easy to enjoy every tournament of the year. We try, but it’s not like this every tournament.

“I practice a lot and I came here with another attitude. I’m trying to have more smiles on the court.”

Making the trip to Kazakhstan, Cobolli put together a solid performance in his opener Wednesday to secure a 6-4, 7-5 victory over Rinky Hijikata. The third seed was particularly satisfied with the mindset he brought to the court and seeing it translate to positive outcomes at the service line.

“I knew that Rinky was a tough opponent, so I try to be focused since the beginning and with a great attitude and great spirit. I played one of my best tennis matches on the hard court this year,” he states. “I think I served my best game on the season, good percentage. I really enjoyed that match.”

Cobolli opened his 2025 with a pair of wins at the United Cup, before enduring a seven-match losing streak. An early season niggle plagued his confidence, as did navigating the trials and tribulations of a sophomore year on tour. No longer the new guy, Cobolli nevertheless kept fighting and the tide eventually turned.

“It’s not easy to play the second year on the tour. You have to confirm everything about your progress, your results.”

The Rome native lifted his maiden ATP trophy on clay in Bucharest, then fittingly triumphed at the 500-level event in Hamburg during his debut as the tour’s admin of social media. Weeks later on a quicker surface, Cobolli celebrated a breakout major run to the Wimbledon quarterfinals and hit No. 17 on the rankings by the end of July.

It was a change in fortune he didn’t necessarily see coming.

“It was unexpected because I started the year not so good with a bit of an injury. I was a little bit lost as well. It’s not easy to play the second year on the tour,” he reflects.

“You have to confirm everything about your progress, your results, so it’s not easy to start the second season very well. I changed my focus, my mind. I start to not think about the result. I start to have fun on the court. I practice more than before and I took many results, not only about the points and money, but also about myself.”

On Monday in Almaty, Cobolli joined defending champion Karen Khachanov and Daniil Medvedev among others to open doors to the Kazakhstan Tennis Federation’s newest tennis complex in the Alatau district. One portion of the activation, as Cobolli would explain, brought him right back to his roots.

“It was a great event, and I had the chance to meet the president (Bulat Utemuratov) there for the first time. It wasn’t my first time planting a tree—I usually do it when I win a trophy,” he explained to press Wednesday.

“In Italy, it’s kind of a tradition. When something important happens, we plant a tree. So I think it’s a beautiful gesture. The tree is missing my name, but I hope they’ll fix that—because now it’s my tree!”

The ATP certainly planted some seed when rolling out Cobolli as their inaugural admin. The free-spirited 23-year-old has thrived in the role, his bubbly personality shining through when creating content on the road highlighting peers that included four-time major winner Jannik Sinner.

The experience is one Cobolli has his sights on extending further.

“I try to have a great relationship with everyone on the tour. I think I make people happy. I try to be also with the fans like this,” he says. “We did this crazy thing with the admin, but it’s fun and I enjoy a lot. It’s not only tennis practice and focus on the court, but it’s also having fun and showing something different about the day.

“I really enjoyed it. I hope I can continue and no one takes my place.”

“I’m trying to be one of the five at the Davis Cup. That’s been a good dream for me. I really want to have the chance.”

In 2024, Cobolli’s season didn’t end on his terms thanks to a shoulder issue. Feeling like Flavio again, the world No. 22 wants to finish this year’s campaign on a strong note for more than just himself. November’s Davis Cup Finals are being staged in Bologna, with the host nation seeking its third consecutive title. Countrymen Sinner, Musetti, Matteo Berrettini, Lorenzo Sonego and Matteo Arnaldi have each been a part of one or both victorious squads at the past two editions in Malaga.

Cobolli hopes his progress as a competitor earns a shot at helping grow his country’s legacy in the event.

“It was a great year with two titles, but the year (hasn’t) ended. I know how to prepare my mood on the court to be more positive and more focused,” Cobolli says.

“I have Vienna, Paris, and maybe Metz after this tournament. I’m trying to be one of the five at the Davis Cup. That’s been a good dream for me. I really want to have the chance.”

SOURCE: https://www.tennis.com/news/articles/flavio-cobolli-wants-davis-cup-finals-nomination-stay-on-atp-admin-almaty

Visits by international tennis stars to Asyl Miras centers have become a cherished tradition of ATP tournaments held in Kazakhstan.

ATP 250 Almaty Open participants and world-renowned tennis players Karen Khachanov and Fabian Marozsan visited the Asyl Miras Autism Center in Almaty.

Visits by international tennis stars to Asyl Miras centers have become a cherished tradition of ATP tournaments held in Kazakhstan. The athletes showed great interest in the center’s work and learned about its programs that help children with autism spectrum disorders develop communication, learning, and independent living skills.

Last year’s Almaty Open champion Karen Khachanov and world No. 52 Fabian Marozsan joined several interactive and educational sessions, spoke with teachers and parents, and spent time with the children – drawing and playing developmental games together. For the young participants, the visit was a true celebration: the guests gave attention to every child, smiling, joking, and offering words of encouragement.

“For us, such meetings are not just part of the program – they are an important reminder that sport is meant to unite and inspire,” said Ainur Karbozova, Director of the Bulat Utemuratov Foundation. “We are deeply grateful to these world-class tennis players for their kindness and genuine interest in our work. This kind of attention helps society better understand that children with autism can grow and succeed when they receive timely support.”

The Bulat Utemuratov Foundation has been implementing its autism program for over ten years. During this time, 13 Asyl Miras centers have opened in 12 cities across Kazakhstan, providing free support to children with autism and their families. The centers implement six evidence-based programs focused on developing speech, social, and learning skills. Over the years, the centers have helped more than 17,000 children, most of whom have shown significant developmental progress.

Khachanov and Marozsan’s visit continued a long-standing tradition that brings together sport and philanthropy. Over the years, Asyl Miras centers have welcomed many global tennis stars, including Novak Djokovic, Carlos Alcaraz, Elena Rybakina, Felix Auger-Aliassime, Daniil Medvedev, Dominic Thiem, Alexander Bublik, Stanislas Wawrinka, Frances Tiafoe, and others.

SOURCE: Forbes.kz

ASTANA, Kazakhstan, Oct. 10, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Haileybury Astana, a leading British international school in Kazakhstan led by Headmaster John Coles, has officially opened the Sci-Tech Hub – a next-generation educational centre that integrates science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) learning in an interdisciplinary format. The opening ceremony was attended by Zhuldyz Suleimenova, Minister of Education of the Republic of Kazakhstan, alongside Sally Axworthy, the newly appointed British Ambassador to Kazakhstan and other distinguished guests from the education and business sectors. Bulat Utemuratov is also a key stakeholder in the hub.

Photo Credit: Haileybury Astana

New hub aims to create ‘next generation of innovators’

Located on the Haileybury Astana campus and spanning over 3,000 sq m, the new facility combines modern laboratories, flexible classrooms and collaborative zones designed to inspire innovation and hands-on learning among students. The Hub features robotics and mathematics laboratories, 3D-visualisation classrooms and interactive learning spaces, all built to international standards.

Photo Credit: Haileybury Astana

Bulat Utemuratov, other stakeholders ‘to continue investing in projects’

Ian Hunt, Chair of the Board of Governors at Haileybury Astana, said: “The Sci-Tech Hub will not only serve as a centre for our school community, but also as a venue for national and international competitions for talented students from across Kazakhstan. Through our scholarship programme, we aim to expand access to world-class education and nurture the next generation of scientists and innovators.”

The Sci-Tech Hub was completed in a record 10 months, with a total investment of KZT 3.4 billion provided by Verny Capital.

Aidan Akanov, CEO of Verny Capital, said: “The Sci-Tech Hub is a landmark initiative that reflects our commitment to the social mission of business and to advancing education in Kazakhstan. With our key stakeholder Bulat Utemuratov, we will continue investing in projects that strengthen the country’s human capital and create lasting opportunities for young people.”

In the coming years, the Sci-Tech Hub plans to develop partnerships with leading international research and education institutions, providing students with opportunities to work on real-world scientific challenges under expert mentorship.

Photo Credit: Haileybury Astana

SOURCE: https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/haileybury-astana-opens-state-of-the-art-sci-tech-hub-in-astana-302580905.htm

New global events and experiences company launches to build a world-class portfolio across sports, entertainment, art, and lifestyle

BEVERLY HILLS, Calif., Oct. 8, 2025 – MARI, a new global events and experiences company founded by Ariel Emanuel, launched today following its acquisitions of IMG’s portfolio of international tennis events and Frieze—the globally influential contemporary art organization—and a majority ownership interest in Barrett-Jackson, the premium collector car auction and automotive lifestyle brand, alongside Barrett-Jackson founder and CEO Craig Jackson, who will remain in his role.

The tennis portfolio includes two premier ATP Masters 1000 and WTA 1000 tournaments—the Miami Open presented by Itaú and Mutua Madrid Open—alongside leading WTA events such as the Mubadala Abu Dhabi Open, Mubadala Citi DC Open, and SP Open. It also features high-profile exhibitions such as Giorgio Armani Tennis Classic and MGM Macau Tennis Masters, as well as the management of major ATP tournaments including the Chengdu Open, Hong Kong Open, Japan Open, and Rio Open.

Emanuel, together with Mark Shapiro who is a Principal Investor and will serve as a Board Member, will guide MARI’s strategy and growth as the company builds a portfolio of iconic events and brands. Together, they bring decades of experience shaping world-class businesses across sports, entertainment, and culture.

MARI’s executive team includes Matt Cohn as Managing Partner and Ben Enowitz as Chief Financial Officer. This group will oversee MARI’s portfolio of live events and drive growth across sports, art, lifestyle, and entertainment. All events will continue under their existing leadership, now within MARI, ensuring continuity and momentum.

MARI is backed by a global group of leading investors, including funds managed by Apollo, RedBird Capital Partners, Qatar Investment Authority, HSG, IMI media group, Ares Management funds, Dr. Patrick Soon-Shiong, a16z Growth, Nancy Zhang, FORTA Advisors, Main Street Advisors, Causeway Media Partners, Gannet Capital, Eric Schmidt, FMZ Ventures, Sideline Group, Curated Wealth Partners, Gaurav Kapadia, Bulat Utemuratov, and Sanjay Govil, as well as superstars from the sports world including Luka Dončić, Anthony Edwards and Sabrina Ionescu.

As part of the Miami Open acquisition, MARI is bringing on the ownership group behind the Miami Dolphins, Hard Rock Stadium, and the Formula 1 Crypto.com Miami Grand Prix, as principal investors. The group includes majority owner Stephen Ross, along with Joe Tsai, Oliver Weisberg, and funds managed by Ares Management. Since 2019, the Miami Open has been hosted at Hard Rock Stadium, a world-class sports and entertainment venue.

“Live events and experiences have never been more powerful,” said Ariel Emanuel, Founder and Principal Investor of MARI. “As people increasingly value experiences over things—and as hybrid work and AI give us more time to enjoy them—sports, art, lifestyle, and entertainment are becoming even more essential. At MARI, we’re building on the global impact of Frieze and the success of the Madrid and Miami Opens to create new ways for audiences to come together and share their passions.”

“We are excited to be a key partner to Ariel Emanuel, Mark Shapiro, and their team as they build out a portfolio of experiential assets in the sports and live events industries—two key areas where our firm sees strong, continued growth. Apollo Sports Capital will work closely with the MARI team to help unlock value across the existing asset base, as well as explore additional opportunities in live events and experiences,” added Apollo Partner Rob Givone.

“RedBird has enjoyed a multi-decade partnership with Ari and Mark, and we are excited to join them again in creating MARI,” said Gerry Cardinale, Founder and Managing Partner of RedBird Capital. “Anchored by the iconic Miami and Madrid Tennis Opens and Frieze, MARI is well positioned from inception to capitalize on the secular growth and convergence of premium intellectual property across Sports and Live Event Entertainment—areas where RedBird brings domain leadership and business building expertise.”

Frieze, Barrett-Jackson, and the tennis properties will serve as flagship assets of MARI’s global events and experiences portfolio. These acquisitions reflect MARI’s long-term vision to build a dynamic collection of category-defining events that bring people together through culture, content, and community.

Akin Gump Strauss Hauer & Feld LLP acted as legal adviser and Goldman Sachs & Co. and LionTree Advisors LLC acted as financial advisors to MARI in connection with the transaction.

SOURCE: https://marigrp.com/news