In "Arena Samokov" on Monday, the European Wrestling Championship for cadets and junior cadets up to 17 years old officially commenced.

The championship was officially opened by Olympic champion Daniel Igali, a member of the United World Wrestling Bureau and a technical delegate of the international federation, and five-time world champion Stanka Zlatova, president of the Bulgarian Wrestling Federation.

In a special address to Stanka Zlatova and all participants, Minister of Youth and Sports Encho Keryazov emphasized: "Hosting this prestigious sports event in Bulgaria, which gathers some of the most promising young competitors from Europe, is a high honor for the traditions and authority of Bulgarian wrestling, as well as for the professionalism and consistent efforts of the Bulgarian Wrestling Federation in developing the sport among young people."

Minister Keryazov expressed confidence that the championship would proceed under excellent organization, in the spirit of sportsmanship, fair competition, and respect among participants. He noted that wrestling is a sport with deep traditions and particular significance for Bulgaria—a sport that fosters discipline, character, respect, and a drive for high achievements.

"The young competitors who take the mat today embody the future of European and world sports and through hard work, willpower, and dedication, they give us reason to be confident in its successful development," Keryazov added, concluding his address with the wish: "Good luck!"

The mayor of Samokov, engineer Angel Georgov, also extended a warm welcome to the participants, highlighting the pride of Samokov to host such a prestigious event and the traditions of the local wrestling school. At the official opening, Zlatova wished success to all competitors and coaches and that "the championship will go as smoothly as possible."