Why Did the Olympics Get Rid of Wrestling?By Coder| August 31, 2023 Wrestling Why Did the Olympics Get Rid of Wrestling? Wrestling, one of the oldest and most traditional sports in the Olympic Games, was shockingly removed from the program by the International Olympic Committee (IOC) in 2013. This decision left many wrestling fans and athletes questioning why such a historical and iconic sport was suddenly abandoned. In this article, we will explore the reasons behind this controversial move. The Olympic Program Evolution Throughout its long history, the Olympic program has evolved to reflect changing times and interests. The IOC constantly evaluates sports to ensure that they maintain global appeal and relevance. In 2013, wrestling was on the chopping block due to concerns over its popularity, gender equality, global reach, and lack of innovation. Lack of Popularity One of the main reasons for wrestling’s removal was its declining popularity among fans. Television ratings and ticket sales were not meeting expectations compared to other sports like swimming or gymnastics. The IOC aims to attract younger audiences who are more interested in action-packed sports with high entertainment value. Growing Gender Equality An important factor in determining a sport’s inclusion in the Olympics is its ability to promote gender equality. The IOC has been striving for greater representation of female athletes as part of their commitment to creating more diverse games. Wrestling faced criticism for having fewer weight categories for women compared to men, which questioned its inclusivity. Limited Global Reach The IOC aims to ensure that sports included in the Olympics have global participation and interest. Wrestling’s popularity varied significantly across different regions of the world. While it thrived in countries like Russia, Iran, and Japan, it struggled to gain traction elsewhere. The IOC sought sports with wider international appeal that would engage audiences worldwide. Lack of Innovation Another factor that played against wrestling was its perceived lack of innovation. The IOC looks for sports that can adapt to modern trends and technologies, offering a fresh and exciting experience to viewers. Wrestling was criticized for not introducing enough rule changes or adopting new formats to make the sport more appealing to contemporary audiences. The Reinstatement Following widespread backlash and outcry from the wrestling community, the IOC made an unprecedented decision in 2013. Wrestling was given a lifeline by being placed on a shortlist of potential sports for reinstatement in the 2020 Olympic Games. The sport went through significant reforms, including rule changes, gender equality enhancements, and increased efforts to engage global audiences. In Conclusion While wrestling’s removal from the Olympic program came as a shock to many, it served as a catalyst for change within the sport. The IOC’s decision highlighted the need for wrestling to adapt to modern demands and appeal to wider audiences. Through its reinstatement process, wrestling has shown resilience and commitment to remain an integral part of the Olympic Games.
