Iran clinches 2026 Asian Cadet Greco-Roman wrestling team title

Iran secured the team title at the Asian U17 Greco-Roman Wrestling Championship on Friday before the conclusion of the final three weight categories.

The tournament is currently taking place in Da Nang, Vietnam. Following a dominant opening day, Iran’s point tally established an insurmountable lead over the rest of the field.

The team title was mathematically confirmed on Friday. This followed an exceptional performance on Thursday, where Iranian wrestlers captured six gold medals across seven weight categories.

The gold medals were earned by Armin Esmaeili at 45 kg, Ali Esmaeili at 48 kg, Vahid Ashiri at 55 kg, Amirreza Tahmasebpour at 60 kg, Amirreza Mehri at 92 kg, and Ali Akbar Akoo at 110 kg. Additionally, Ahmad Badredini competed in the 51 kg category on Thursday, finishing the tournament in fifth place.

Three Iranian representatives remain in contention for medals during Friday's final sessions.

Esmail Zaherdoust (71 kg division) advanced to the final match while Hamed Dehghanzadeh (65 kg) and Mehdi Gholamian (80 kg) will fight for bronze medals.

Following Thursday's six-gold sweep, Iran's Sports Minister Ahmad Donyamali issued an official message praising the team’s performance.

"What transpired today in Da Nang is a display of authority by a generation that proved talent-building in Iranian wrestling is flowing with wisdom and intelligence," he said.

The minister added that securing top podium finishes at youth levels signals the rise of future stars for global and Olympic arenas.

"Wrestling has always been and remains the pillar of Iranian sports honors," the message said. "In this event-filled year where the eyes of the nation are on the efforts of our champions, this decisive victory breathed fresh spirit into the body of sports."

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