Azerbaijan Opens 2026 U17 World Wrestling Championships in Baku
Baku, The Gulf Observer: The opening ceremony of the 2026 U17 World Wrestling Championships was held at the National Gymnastics Arena in Baku on Sunday, bringing together athletes, officials, and sports leaders from around the world for the prestigious international tournament.
Speaking at the ceremony, Mikayil Jabbarov, Azerbaijan’s Minister of Economy and President of the Azerbaijan Wrestling Federation, highlighted the country’s extensive experience in hosting major international sporting events and praised the close cooperation between the Azerbaijan Wrestling Federation and United World Wrestling (UWW).
Jabbarov noted that approximately 700 athletes from more than 60 countries are participating in the championships, competing for medals across various wrestling categories.
Addressing the gathering, Farid Gayibov, Azerbaijan’s Minister of Youth and Sports, emphasized the Azerbaijani government’s continued commitment to the development of sports. He also highlighted Baku’s designation as the World Capital of Sport for 2026, describing it as a reflection of the successful sports policy pursued under the leadership of President Ilham Aliyev.
Other speakers at the opening ceremony included Chingiz Huseynzada, Vice-President of Azerbaijan’s National Olympic Committee, and Nenad Lalovic, President of United World Wrestling, both of whom praised Azerbaijan’s contributions to the promotion of international wrestling and global sports.
The ceremony concluded with a cultural and artistic program celebrating Azerbaijan’s heritage and the spirit of international sporting cooperation.
The 2026 U17 World Wrestling Championships will continue in Baku until August 2, featuring young wrestlers from across the globe competing for world titles in one of the sport’s premier youth events.
