Egyptian wrestler Mohamed El-Shamy leaves team delegation in Rome

Egyptian freestyle wrestler Mohamed Mostafa Ali El-Shamy has explained his decision to leave the national team delegation during a transit stop at Rome's airport. El-Shamy, a decorated athlete with multiple African championship titles, stated that financial instability and the inability to secure a future or afford housing for marriage were the primary drivers for his departure.

In response to the incident, the Egyptian Ministry of Youth and Sports has referred the matter to the Public Prosecutor to investigate the circumstances and responsibilities. Additionally, the Egyptian Olympic Committee has suspended the head of the wrestling delegation, Ibrahim Adel Ibrahim Mostafa El-Attar, referring him to the Values Committee for negligence in supervising the delegation and managing passports during the transit.

El-Shamy expressed regret toward his family and supporters, noting that while he still dreams of representing Egypt and winning an Olympic medal, the lack of sufficient financial support made it impossible to sustain a dignified life or prepare for life after retirement.