New Delhi, May 22: United World Wrestling (UWW) has announced the postponement of the 2026 World Wrestling Championship. The event was scheduled to take place in Bahrain from October 24 to November 1. The decision comes due to the current situation in West Asia.
In a statement released on Friday, UWW said, “United World Wrestling, in collaboration with the Bahrain Olympic Committee and the Bahrain Wrestling Federation, announces the postponement of the 2026 World Championship. This championship was originally set to be held in the Kingdom of Bahrain from October 24 to November 1.”
The statement emphasized that this decision was made after careful consideration of the ongoing geopolitical situation in the region. The uncertainty surrounding potential conflicts in the Gulf region and its broader impact on regional stability and international travel were significant factors in this decision.
UWW’s statement noted, “Bahrain is fully committed to hosting world-class sporting events, but all parties agree that the safety, trust, and overall experience of athletes, officials, delegations, partners, and fans must be our top priority.”
UWW highlighted the importance of making this decision swiftly and transparently, allowing ample time to identify a new host.
The statement continued, “As organizations dedicated to the development and dignity of international sport, UWW, the Bahrain Olympic Committee, and the Bahrain Wrestling Federation believe it is crucial to make this decision with sufficient time and transparency, rather than waiting until the final stages of preparation. Acting responsibly now provides a valuable opportunity to assess potential new host countries for 2026, ensuring that the competition’s hosting is identified and organized in a professional and systematic manner.”
UWW also reminded that sports remain a “universal language of peace, respect, and unity.” Wrestling has always served as a bridge between nations, cultures, and people. In times of uncertainty and division, it is essential to remember that sports still embody these universal values. UWW, the Bahrain Olympic Committee, and the Bahrain Wrestling Federation jointly issued this statement in this spirit.
The statement concluded, “We wish to express our heartfelt gratitude to the global wrestling family—athletes, national federations, coaches, officials, partners, and supporters worldwide—for their understanding, solidarity, and continued support. United World Wrestling works closely with national members to protect the interests of the sport and its community globally, with trust and shared commitment.”
Further information regarding future dates and hosting matters will be provided in due course.
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