Traditional wrestling competitions hosted by Herat Province were held on Thursday and Friday (September 27 and 28) at the Herat Sports Stadium. The event was organized by the Directorate of Physical Education and Sports of Herat Province, with a number of central government officials in attendance.
Abdul Rahim Rahmani, Head of Physical Education and Sports in Herat Province, told our correspondent: “The competitions featured athletes from the provinces of Herat, Farah, Badghis, Ghor, Nimroz, and Kandahar.” He added that due to time constraints, athletes from other provinces were unable to participate.
Hayatullah Rahmani, President of the Afghan Federation of Traditional Wrestling, who traveled to Herat for the event, stated in an interview: “This sport has seen significant growth in recent years.”
Regarding upcoming international competitions, he noted: “Soon, junior and youth teams will participate in traditional wrestling competitions in Bahrain. Additionally, another tournament will be held in Saudi Arabia, where Afghan athletes will also compete.” Mr. Rahmani further announced that 20 Afghan wrestlers would compete in freestyle wrestling tournaments in Egypt, divided into two groups. He also mentioned that belt wrestling competitions are scheduled to take place in India, and Afghan athletes will participate if visas are granted.
The local wrestling competitions in Herat attracted hundreds of athletes and thousands of spectators. The event was held at the Herat Football Stadium. However, some attendees called for the construction of a standard wrestling facility in Herat.
Nader, one of the local wrestlers, emphasized: “We need a properly equipped venue for training and competitions. Wrestling has long held a special place in our culture, and its popularity has been growing remarkably in recent times.”
In response to these demands, the President of the Afghan Federation of Traditional Wrestling confirmed efforts to allocate land for a dedicated wrestling stadium in Herat, in coordination with provincial authorities. He stated: “We are actively pursuing the provision of adequate facilities for our athletes.”
Herat, one of Afghanistan’s historic and cultural provinces, boasts the largest number of sports disciplines and athletes after Kabul. Nevertheless, many athletes continue to call for greater support and expanded opportunities to compete internationally.
