The International Olympic Committee (IOC) issued a statement addressing reports of the execution of 19-year-old Iranian freestyle wrestler Saleh Mohammadi, following condemnations from several Olympians.
The IOC told Fox News Digital it is "concerned every time it learns of individual cases of mistreatment" of athletes, but noted challenges in verifying information during conflicts or unrest without contradicting reports. The organization highlighted its focus on Iranian athletes impacted by events in their country, as with athletes worldwide facing similar issues.[1]
The IOC, a non-governmental sports body responsible for the Olympic Games, stated it lacks authority to influence sovereign nations' laws or politics, emphasizing its role in fostering peaceful competition through quiet diplomacy. It said it remains in contact with Iran's Olympic community.[1]
Mohammadi was reportedly executed by public hanging on Thursday, along with Mehdi Ghasemi and Saeed Davoudi, after conviction for killing two police officers during nationwide protests, according to Iranian judiciary-linked Mizan news agency as cited by Iran International.[1]
U.S. Olympic gold medalists Brandon Slay (wrestling, Sydney 2000), Tyler Clary (swimming, London 2012) and Kaillie Humphries (bobsleigh, multiple Olympics) condemned the execution in comments to Fox News Digital.[1][2]
Slay, a 2000 Olympic champion in the 76 kg freestyle category, said his prayers are with Mohammadi's family and expressed hope amid oppression.[1][3]
Iran has a storied wrestling tradition, producing numerous Olympic medals, including 33 across freestyle and Greco-Roman events through Tokyo 2020.[4]
The IOC has previously voiced concern over athlete executions in Iran, such as that of wrestler Navid Afkari in 2020 following protests.[5]
Sources
- Fox News Digital, "IOC addresses the recent execution of 19-year-old wrestling star Saleh Mohammadi by the Iranian regime", accessed October 2024, https://www.foxnews.com/sports
