#WorldRefugeeDay

World Refugee Day 2021

By United World Wrestling Press

CORSIER-SUR-VEVEY, Switzerland (June 20) — Today, in cooperation with UNHCR and the International Olympic Committee, United World Wrestling stands together with refugees across the world in raising awareness for those who continue to preserve while searching for a brighter future -- including wrestling’s own Aker AL-OBAIDI.

Last week, Al-Obaidi was named to the IOC Refugee Team for the Tokyo Olympic Games. The Iraqi-refugee currently resides and wrestles in Austria and will compete in his first Olympic Games this August. "This is one of the most beautiful moments in my life, said Al-Obaidi. "I am so happy that this dream has come true. I have imagined this situation so many times. Now I will do everything to be well prepared in Tokyo!“

After the announcement, United World Wrestling’s President, Mr. Nenad LALOVIC said, “We are proud of Aker, He has worked hard to achieve his goals on and off the mat. We are in full support of his career and share in his excitement for competing in Tokyo this summer.”

To learn more about World Refugee Day, visit: https://www.unhcr.org/world-refugee-day.html
 

 

#WrestleTirana

Reactions to Kayaalp's 13th European Title

By United World Wrestling Press

TIRANA, Albania (April 22) -- The moment Riza KAYAALP (TUR) won the 13th European Championships gold medal in Tirana on Tuesday, it sent Turkiye into a frenzy.

From Turkish President Recep ERDOGAN to other political personalities, the historic moment saw reactions from all quarters.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Kayaalp broke Aleksandr KARELIN's record of 12 gold medal at the European Championships by winning his 13th.