Azerbaijani Sambo Federation responds to Armenian deputy minister’s false statements

The Azerbaijani Sambo Federation has issued a statement related to Armenian Deputy Minister of Education, Science, Culture and Sports Karen Giloyan’s false statements to local media regarding the non-participation of the Azerbaijani and Turkish national teams in the World Cup in Yerevan.

“We would like to declare that the Azerbaijani Sambo Federation was not disqualified by the International Sambo Federation (FIAS). The official letter we sent to FIAS on October 18 testifies to this. Proceeding from the letter, the flag of Azerbaijan was burned at the opening ceremony of the European Weightlifting Championship in Yerevan in April 2023. We stated that this does not fit into the framework of sporting values, our athletes’ safety is not ensured, so, we decided not to participate in the World Cup,” azerisport.com reports, citing the Azerbaijani Sambo Federation.

“Moreover, the Azerbaijani national teams participated in the World Youth and Junior Sambo Championships in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, on October 6-8, 2023. We urge the Armenian media to clarify information with international organizations before disseminating false information or any opinion,” the Azerbaijani Sambo Federation said.