Global skies are turbulent from the Iran-Israel clash, with the Indian women’s wrestling team caught in Albania, unable to fly back after their successful stint at the Muhammad Malla 2026 event. The Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) has vowed complete protection, coordinating with New Delhi for the 16 wrestlers and staff.
Iran’s reprisal attacks on military sites across UAE, Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain, and Jordan sealed regional airspace, canceling the squad’s connecting flights.
Post-Sunday’s tournament wrap-up in Tirana, the team couldn’t depart like the earlier-returned men’s freestyle group.
Coach Manjeet, settled in a nearby hotel, affirmed, ‘Safe and sound—no concerns. Grateful for WFI and government’s swift intervention.’
Head coach Virender Singh confirmed, ‘Post-cancellation, sports ministry and WFI contacted us. Full confidence in their safety net until routes reopen.’
India’s 48-wrestler powerhouse delivered: under-23 star Sujit Kalkal grabbed the only gold in 65kg freestyle, with the tally hitting one gold, three silvers, three bronzes across disciplines. Amid medals and mayhem, assurances keep spirits high for the homeward bound athletes.