New Delhi: The Wrestling Federation of India [WFI] and its Partner M/s. Leisure Sports Management, Kolkata have decided to postpone the 1st Edition of the Indian Wrestling League [IWL] which was to consist of six franchise owned teams so as not to disturb the preparation of the Indian men & women wrestlers for the Olympic qualifying tournaments and also the Olympic Games.

The League was scheduled to be held in February / March 2012 and most of the arrangements had been finalized. However, the chief coaches of both men free style and women teams, Vinod Kumar and O.P. Yadav strongly advised the postponement as the league being a major event will distract the focus from the training schedule for the Olympic Qualifying Tournaments which will be held from March to May 2012 and will therefore adversely affect the chances of Indian wrestlers qualifying for the Olympic Games.

This is particularly important as wrestling is one of few disciplines in which India is expected to get medals at the 2012 London Olympic Games. The Wrestling Federation of India was also advised by Dr. Change Kew Kim, President, Asian Associated Wrestling Council and some FILA Bureau Members who were of the opinion that the leading wrestlers from various countries will only be available for participation in the Indian Wrestling League after the 2012 London Olympic Games.

Accordingly, the Governing Council of the IWL under the chairmanship of GS Mander has decided in consultation with SS Dasgupata, Managing Director, Leisure Sports Management, Kolkata to reschedule the IWL from 15th November – 14th December 2012.