Ammon News - Sport is a way of achieving equality, freedom of expression, and openness to different cultures Therefore , restricting the participation of women covering their head in the sport of freestyle wrestling at the global level raises questions about the extent to which global sport adheres to the principles of inclusiveness and justice. If the hijab is considered an obstacle in this sport, why do we find in other sports practical solutions that cover the head and integrate athletes equally?

Hijab in freestyle wrestling is an unjustified challenge
The sport of freestyle wrestling requires a specific attire that allows for free movement and flexible movements, but head covering seems to be treated as an illogical obstacle The argument often made by organizers is that it may pose a safety risk or hinder competition, but this argument contradicts many examples of other sports that allow the head to be covered appropriately without a negative impact on performance.

Most sports adopt head covering, in taekwondo, the International Olympic Committee allowed taekwondo to use a special head covering for veiled women during tournaments, and the head cover is designed so that it is comfortable and stable and does not pose a danger to the player or opponent. In equestrian sports, veiled riders rely on custom helmets that cover the head and match the hijab, and also women's football, the International Federation of Football Association (FIFA) has allowed the use of the hijab since 2014, with the development of a custom design that prevents any safety risks, and there is judo where it was approved to use a specially designed hijab so that it sticks to the head and does not affect performance.

Recent studies indicate that the hijab does not hinder physical performance if it is designed appropriately, in a study conducted by the University of Calgary in Canada confirmed that the hijab designed specifically for sports does not affect the thermal or dynamic performance of athletes but can be part of the sports identity without conflict with the requirements of sports.

Integration of veiled women in freestyle wrestling
A special sports headdress can be designed for this sport that is flexible, stable, and does not pose a risk during fights. Awareness and education enhance the organizers' understanding of the specificity and advantages of the hijab through media and scientific campaigns.

And also, through human rights initiatives to highlight the importance of the inclusion of veiled women as part of human rights in sports. Depriving veiled women from participating in freestyle wrestling at the global level constitutes discrimination contrary to sporting values. If other sports can find practical solutions to cover the head, freestyle wrestling is able to take similar steps, reflecting its commitment to equality and inclusivity. The sports world must realize that the hijab is not a barrier, but a symbol that reflects diversity and freedom.

If justice is not in sports, where can it be?
We are a team, and we hope to participate in tournaments as a full team

Tala Abu Khait Player in the Jordan Wrestling Federation team
Lana Arnaout