Intro
US-Israel strikes on Iran trigger global travel chaos for athletes
Kolkata
The escalating conflict following US-Israel strikes on Iran has disrupted international air travel, leaving Indian women wrestlers stranded in Tirana and badminton star PV Sindhu stuck in Dubai.
A 16-member women’s wrestling squad, along with support staff, is currently stranded in Tirana, Albania, after their return flight via Dubai was cancelled. The team had travelled to compete in the second Ranking Series event, which commenced on February 25. While the men’s freestyle team returned to India after completing their campaign, the women’s squad now faces uncertainty amid the global crisis.
“We were scheduled to fly out at 1 PM local time from Tirana, but the flight has been cancelled as it was via Dubai,” a member of the coaching staff said. He added that the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) is working on alternative arrangements to bring the contingent home safely.
The wrestlers are staying at the team hotel but were required to vacate their rooms by 11 AM on Sunday, raising logistical concerns. Sources in the WFI confirmed that the Sports Authority of India has been informed and requested to coordinate with the Indian Embassy in Albania for assistance. If flight arrangements are delayed, the contingent may have to shift to another hotel.
Despite the turmoil, the Indian women delivered a commendable performance, clinching three silver and two bronze medals. Priyanshi Prajapat (50kg), Meenakshi (53kg) and Neha (57kg) secured silver medals, while Muskan (50kg) and Savita (62kg) won bronze. Earlier, Sujeet Kalkal bagged gold in the 65kg category.
Meanwhile, two-time Olympic medallist Sindhu was stranded at Dubai Airport en route to Birmingham for the prestigious All England Open. She revealed on social media that an explosion occurred near their location at the airport, causing panic. Sindhu later confirmed that she and her team were safely moved to a secure area, thanking airport authorities and the Indian High Commission in Dubai for their swift support.