Yuri Maier
Born April 5, 1989 in Corrientes, Argentina • Next birthday: April 5, 2026
April 5, 1989
Corrientes, Argentina0
0 likesApril 5, 2026
158 days out36
Total visitsBefore Yuri Maier became a household name in the world of sports, few could predict the profound journey that lay ahead. Born on April 5, 1989, in Corrientes, Argentina, he moved to Buenos Aires at the age of six. His early years were marked by a deep passion for sports, beginning with gymnastics and swimming. However, at seven, he discovered Olympic wrestling, a sport that would define his life. Over a career spanning more than two decades, Maier became Argentina's most decorated wrestler, securing 13 Pan American medals across various age categories and clinching a bronze at the 2011 Pan American Games-the nation's first in two decades. His dedication took him across the globe, training in Cuba, the United States, Germany, and Russia, including a pivotal four-year stint in Vladikavkaz to prepare for the Rio 2016 Olympics. Despite facing injuries that ended his competitive career, Maier transitioned seamlessly into sports management. He joined United World Wrestling (UWW) as a Sports and Development Officer, focusing on the Americas. His commitment to athlete welfare led him to become an Educator Leader for the IOC's Athlete365 Career+ program. Furthering his academic pursuits, he earned a Postgraduate in International Sport Management from the University of London, an Executive Master in Management of Sport Organizations from the University of Ottawa, and a PhD in Sport Sciences from the University of Science and Physical Culture 'Manuel Fajardo' in Havana. Maier's journey reflects a harmonious blend of athletic prowess, academic excellence, and a deep commitment to the global sports community. Even now, his legacy reverberates through the worlds of sports management, education, and athlete development, promising continued inspiration and progress.
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Career & Achievements
- 13 Pan American Wrestling Medals (2004–2013)
- Bronze Medal at 2011 Pan American Games
- Sports and Development Officer at United World Wrestling (UWW)
- Educator Leader for IOC Athlete365 Career+ Program
- Postgraduate in International Sport Management from University of London
- Executive Master in Management of Sport Organizations from University of Ottawa
- PhD in Sport Sciences from University of Science and Physical Culture 'Manuel Fajardo' in Havana
Personal Details
Latest News
United World Wrestling
Yuri Maier Completes IOC MEMOS Executive Master in Sport Management
Yuri Maier, a 13-time Pan American medalist and Sports and Development Officer at United World Wrestling, has successfully completed the IOC MEMOS Executive Master in Sport Management Organisation. His research focused on enhancing the administration of UWW National Federations in the Americas, aiming for global implementation towards LA 2028.
Wrestling for Peace
Yuri Maier Participates in Wrestling for Peace Initiative in Zagreb
At the 2025 Senior World Wrestling Championships in Zagreb, Croatia, Yuri Maier, alongside Deqa Niamkey, led a session on the 'Wrestling for Peace' initiative. The program aims to uplift communities, develop emerging leaders, and unite people across borders through the sport of wrestling.
FAQ
Who is Yuri Maier?
Yuri Maier is an Argentine Olympic wrestler and sports development officer, known for his 13 Pan American medals and his work with United World Wrestling.
What are Yuri Maier's most notable achievements?
Maier's achievements include winning 13 Pan American medals, earning a bronze at the 2011 Pan American Games, and serving as a Sports and Development Officer at United World Wrestling.
What is the IOC Athlete365 Career+ program?
The IOC Athlete365 Career+ program supports athletes in their career transitions, offering education and resources. Yuri Maier serves as an Educator Leader for this program.
Where was Yuri Maier born?
Yuri Maier was born in Corrientes, Argentina, on April 5, 1989.
How did Yuri Maier transition from wrestling to sports management?
After retiring from competitive wrestling due to injuries, Maier focused on sports management, earning advanced degrees and taking on leadership roles in global sports organizations.
What academic qualifications does Yuri Maier hold?
Maier holds a Postgraduate in International Sport Management from the University of London, an Executive Master in Management of Sport Organizations from the University of Ottawa, and a PhD in Sport Sciences from the University of Havana.
What role does Yuri Maier have at United World Wrestling?
Yuri Maier serves as a Sports and Development Officer for United World Wrestling, where he focuses on the development of sports in the Americas.
What are Yuri Maier's contributions to sports management?
Maier has contributed to sports management by leading development programs, supporting athlete careers, and combining his wrestling experience with academic expertise in the global sports community.
What are Maier's plans for the future of sports development?
Yuri Maier aims to continue expanding sports development, focusing on athlete welfare, education, and the integration of academic and practical knowledge in global sports management.
How did Maier's global training experiences influence his career?
Training in diverse countries like Cuba, Russia, and the US helped Maier refine his wrestling skills, broaden his perspective, and later shaped his approach to sports management on a global scale.
What challenges did Yuri Maier face during his wrestling career?
Maier faced various challenges, including injuries that ultimately led to the end of his competitive career, but he overcame them by transitioning into sports management and education.
What is the significance of Yuri Maier's Pan American Games bronze medal?
Maier's bronze medal at the 2011 Pan American Games was significant as it marked Argentina's first wrestling medal in two decades, solidifying his legacy as one of the country's top wrestlers.
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