Egyptian Prosecutors Investigate Wrestlers' Unauthorized Departures

The Egyptian Ministry of Youth and Sports has referred two cases of wrestlers fleeing international competitions to the public prosecutor. These incidents involved unauthorized departures during official team travel, prompting immediate legal and administrative action to enforce discipline within national delegations.

Flight Details and Disciplinary Measures

The investigations focus on wrestler Mohamed Al-Shami, who went missing during a transit in Rome, and Ziad Hajjaj, who fled during the Junior World Championships in Slovakia. Consequently, wrestling delegation head Ibrahim Adel El-Attar was suspended and referred to the Ethics Committee for his role in the oversight.

Ministry reports indicate that the delegation head failed to secure passports, enabling Al-Shami's escape despite the coach's attempts to intervene. Regarding Hajjaj, the Egyptian Wrestling Union was tasked with compiling a detailed report on the circumstances before handing the case over to judicial authorities.

Sports Achievements Remain Distinct

Despite these administrative breaches, the Ministry emphasized that athletic success remains unaffected, noting Egypt won seven medals at the Mediterranean Games. The haul includes two golds, two silvers, and three bronzes, highlighting the team's competitive strength despite internal management flaws.

These measures underscore that national representation demands strict adherence to regulations, without diminishing the athletes' field efforts. The Ministry stressed that it will not prejudge the outcomes of ongoing legal and administrative investigations into responsibility.