Former member of the Iranian national judo team Vahid Sarlak asked for asylum in Germany, saying he does not want to return to Tehran, the Iranian Mehr news agency reported.
According to the information, Sarlak attended a practice session with the German national team in March in hopes for further cooperation. Later, he stated his intention to represent Germany's national team in international judo competitions.
The athlete said his decision was rooted in his financial difficulties.
According to the athlete, the Iranian Judo Federation pays low wages.
"Feeling that the federation does not need me, I decided to build my future outside of Iran," he said. "I am tired of the federation's irrational policy and I do not intend to return to Iran. I have already asked to be granted asylum, and I will continue to work for Germany's national team. "
According to the information, earlier another member of the Iranian national judo team, Ehsan Rajabi, asked for asylum in the United States. From now on, Rajabi will perform for the U.S. team.