Flag of Kazakhstan

Legendary Kazakh Sports Journalist Rabat Zhanibekov Passes Away at 82

in Society / Kazakhstan - by


Early on March 5, 2024, renowned journalist and commentator Rabat Zhanibekov passed away at the age of 82, after dedicating nearly 40 years of his career to promoting Kazakh sports.

Throughout his career, Rabat Zhanibekov worked extensively in Kazakh television, covering matches in the Soviet championships for football and bandy. His voice was familiar to fans from the World Championships in speed skating and speedway.

Known as a master of sports journalism, he produced memorable reports for Kazakh audiences from the 1980 Moscow Olympics, which are still treasured in the archives of Kazakh radio and television.

Born in the South Kazakhstan region (now Turkistan), Rabat Zhanibekov graduated from Kazakh State University with a degree in journalism. Over the years, he mentored numerous students who have gone on to become leading journalists in the country.

The funeral of Rabat Zhanibekov will take place on March 6 in his hometown of Zhenkum, in the Turkestan region.