Yesterday, on 23 April, an international festival of traditional wrestling styles was ceremonially launched in the city of Kabul. Within the framework of this prestigious event, Kurash competitions were organised. Notably, the fact that such a large-scale international Kurash tournament was held for the first time in Afghanistan’s history further increased the significance of the event.
A total of 170 athletes from Afghanistan, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, Turkey, Turkmenistan and Kyrgyzstan, took part in the competition. The contests were held in the following weight categories: -60 kg, -66 kg, -73 kg, -81 kg, -90 kg, –100 kg, and +100 kg. Of these participants, 110 athletes represented the host nation, while 60 competitors defended the honour of foreign countries.
The opening ceremony of the festival was attended by the Acting Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan, Amir Khan Muttaqi; the Head of Physical Education and Sports and the National Olympic Committee, Ahmadullah Wasiq; the Minister of Agriculture, Mawlawi Ataullah Omari; the Governor of Kabul Province, Aminullah Ubaid; as well as a number of high-ranking officials from the Ministry of Interior and the Prime Minister’s Office. In addition, the Chief of Police of Kabul city, Mullah Hamza, also participated in the event, further demonstrating the high status of the competition.
Following intense and uncompromising bouts, the Uzbekistan national team secured first place in the overall Kurash standings. The second place went to representatives of Tajikistan, while the host nation, Afghanistan, earned an honourable third place.
The International Kurash Association regards this festival as an important historic step in the development of Kurash in Afghanistan. The tournament served not only as a field of sporting competition but also as a symbol of regional solidarity and cultural exchange.
For reference, it should be noted that on 28–30 September 2024, a delegation of the International Kurash Association led by its President, Haider Farman, paid an official visit to Afghanistan. During the visit, a series of productive meetings were held with the leadership of the Afghan government, as well as with the Ministers of Foreign Affairs and Sports and officials of the National Olympic Committee. As a result, important agreements were reached aimed at organising international Kurash competitions in the country and further developing this sport.
