Mass Withdrawals Rock Arab Wrestling Championship: Moroccan Map Knocks Out Six Algerians!

Fes, Morocco: The Arab Wrestling Championship, witnessed an extraordinary event with the withdrawal of six Algerian wrestlers from their matches against their Moroccan counterparts. This protest stems from the Moroccan team’s decision to wear jerseys featuring a map of the Kingdom of Morocco, including Moroccan Western Sahara.

Record Numbers:

Never before has the Arab Wrestling Championship seen such a number of withdrawals in a single day, sparking a major buzz among event followers. Some have considered this move a “moral victory” for Morocco, while others have deemed it “unsportsmanlike” conduct from the Algerian side.

Details of the Withdrawals:

  • Fatima Zahra Bouchibbi: Withdrew from her match against Zineb Echbaiki in the 53 kg weight category for under-23.
  • Sofiane Kazina: Withdrew from his match against Tarik Benhashem in Greco-Roman wrestling, 55 kg weight category.
  • Mohamed Yassine Derdouri: Withdrew from his match against Moez Jehad in Greco-Roman wrestling, 60 kg weight category.
  • Oussama Laghibi: Withdrew from his match against Ismail Talbi in Greco-Roman wrestling, 63 kg weight category.
  • Hussam Oussifi: Withdrew from his match against Saad Amandar in Greco-Roman wrestling, 87 kg weight category.
  • Melissa Belaid: Withdrew from her match against Malak Essadiri in the 73 kg weight category for under-17.

Reactions:

No official comments have been issued by the Algerian Wrestling Federation regarding these withdrawals, while some Algerian wrestlers have expressed their solidarity with this decision, considering it a national duty. On the other hand, the championship’s organizing committee announced an investigation into the incident, emphasizing its commitment to neutrality and respect for all participants.

Potential Consequences:

These withdrawals are likely to cast a shadow over sports relations between Morocco and Algeria and could lead to sanctions against the Algerian Wrestling Federation by the Arab Wrestling Federation.

In Conclusion:

This event remains exceptional in the history of the Arab Wrestling Championship and raises questions about the future of sports relations between the two neighboring countries.

About محمد الفاسي