King: Wrestling is a Long-Standing Iowa Tradition

Washington, D.C.- Congressman Steve King released the following statement after signing a letter sent to the International Olympic Committee Board (IOC) urging it to reconsider the removal of wrestling as an Olympic sport following the 2016 Olympic Games. Gov. Terry Branstad, Lt. Gov. Kim Reynolds, and the entire Iowa Congressional Delegation signed the letter. Congressman King is also a co-sponsor of Congressman Loebsack's recent resolution opposing the IOC's decision (H. Res. 71).

"Wrestling has deep roots in our great state, but this is an Olympic sport that extends well beyond Iowa and the United States. It is popular in many of the world's largest countries," said King. "Wrestling is a sport of great strength, determination and perseverance – all characteristics that embody the Iowa spirit.

Removing wrestling from the Olympic Games is not simply a matter of 'renewing or renovating the program' as the IOC stated. This decision eliminates a storied tradition from the Games. I encourage the IOC to rethink its stance and allow wrestling to remain in the 2020 Olympic Games and beyond, and I am pleased that I had the opportunity to join the Governor, Lt. Governor and my colleagues in Congress in delivering that strong message to the IOC today."