{"id":24583,"date":"2026-10-08T17:30:46","date_gmt":"2026-10-08T12:00:46","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.indianeagle.com\/traveldiary\/?p=24583"},"modified":"2026-10-08T17:30:46","modified_gmt":"2026-10-08T12:00:46","slug":"indian-wrestlers-u23-world-championships-2026","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.indianeagle.com\/traveldiary\/indian-wrestlers-u23-world-championships-2026\/","title":{"rendered":"Indian Wrestling Team Prepares for U23 World Championships 2026 Amid Visa Challenges"},"content":{"rendered":"
\"Indian
Source: ChatGPT<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

India\u2019s preparations for the U23 World Wrestling Championships 2026 have faced a visa-related challenge after several wrestlers reportedly were refused US visas. Nine of the 16 Indian wrestlers who attended visa interviews at the US Embassy in New Delhi were denied visas ahead of the tournament in Las Vegas.<\/span><\/p>\n

What Happened During the US Visa Interviews?<\/b><\/h2>\n

A group of 16 Indian wrestlers and eight support staff attended visa interviews at the US Embassy in New Delhi. According to reports, nine wrestlers were refused visas. Eight of the affected wrestlers were reportedly aged 20 or younger. WFI officials expressed disappointment over the development and contacted the US Embassy about the issue. Another group of Indian wrestlers and support staff was also scheduled to attend visa interviews, increasing concerns about whether India would be able to send its complete team to Las Vegas.<\/span><\/p>\n

Why Were Indian Wrestlers Reportedly Denied US Visas?<\/b><\/h3>\n

According to the Wrestling Federation of India, the age and employment status of some wrestlers were reportedly factors during their visa interviews. Many wrestlers competing in age-group championships are young athletes who train full-time and may not yet have regular employment. WFI said some wrestlers aged 20 or younger were reportedly questioned about their employment situation.<\/span><\/p>\n

In another case, a woman wrestler who had recently joined Indian Railways was reportedly asked to provide salary and bank details. She was unable to provide the requested information during the process and was refused a visa. However, these reasons have been reported by WFI officials. They should not be treated as a general rule that young or unemployed applicants automatically face a US visa refusal.<\/span><\/p>\n

Who Can Compete at the U23 World Wrestling Championships?<\/b><\/h3>\n

The U23 World Wrestling Championships feature top young wrestlers from around the world. The competition includes athletes across three major categories:<\/span><\/p>\n