The U17 World Championship held in Katerini, Greece, once again demonstrated the rapid global rise of beach wrestling. With over 170 athletes from 27 countries, the event stood out not only for its scale but also for the growing recognition of beach wrestling as a serious and strategic sport on the international stage.
One of the key drivers behind this surge in participation is the upcoming Youth Olympic Games in Dakar 2026, where beach wrestling will be featured for the first time. Many countries are now investing in structured development programs, strengthening their positions in this discipline, and preparing young athletes for Olympic-level competition. This shift reflects not only athletic ambition but also a broader vision of international cooperation and sports diplomacy.
Azerbaijan’s national team delivered a standout performance in Katerini, earning both individual and team honors. The boys’ team secured one gold and one bronze medal, placing third overall in the team rankings:
• Nihad Suleymanli dominated the 80 kg weight class, defeating all opponents to become U17 World Champion.
• Elgun Kerimli competed in the 90 kg category, losing only in the semifinal and winning the bronze medal match to finish third.
The girls’ team placed fourth overall, with a historic milestone:
• Ulviyya Musayeva became Azerbaijan’s first-ever female beach wrestling world champion, winning gold in the 55 kg category.
These achievements go beyond medals they lay the foundation for Azerbaijan’s long-term vision in beach wrestling. Preparations for Dakar 2026 are already underway, with a focus on physical conditioning, tactical analysis, international exposure, and youth motivation. Training camps, global competitions, and strategic partnerships are all part of this comprehensive approach.
Beach wrestling is now a dynamic, fast-growing discipline recognized by international federations and moving steadily toward full Olympic inclusion. The scale and quality of the Katerini championship, along with the athletes’ performances, show that beach wrestling is poised to expand across more regions, attract stronger competition, and engage wider audiences in the coming years.
Azerbaijan is not only part of this evolution it is positioned to help shape it. With rising talent, strategic leadership, and a commitment to excellence, the country is becoming a key player in the future of beach wrestling.
