The EUBC Extraordinary Congress 2023 was attended by 34 European National Federations, on 13 July in Istanbul. The main agenda point was the amendment of the EUBC constitution to improve the governance and the operations of the EUBC, and the relationship with the NFs. The Assembly unanimously agreed on the proposed amendments.

After the roll call, delegations were welcomed by President of the Turkish Boxing Federation Mr. Eyup Gozgec and then addressed by the EUBC President Dr. Ioannis Filippatos. The President of the International Boxing Association (IBA) Mr. Umar Kremlev, Honorary President of EUBC Franco Falcinelli and IBA Interim Secretary General of IBA Mr. Chris Roberts also attended the congress and delivered speeches to the audience.

The EUBC President took the opportunity to announce the establishment of a new EUBC Office in Monaco, while the Monaco representative Nikoleta Zavitsanou shared the details of the office. It was noted that the EUBC Head Office will remain in Italy.

In line with the aim to encourage and ensure a culture of high standards of conduct and behaviour, the proposed EUBC Integrity Code was introduced. EUBC Ethics Committee Chair Jean-Francois Reymond and Member Guido Battaglia led a significant discussion on EUBC’s approach on athletes’ eligibility. They provided an overview of the arguments shaping the debate on this complex topic, contextualised the elements of athlete eligibility considered by sport bodies and outlined the ethical standards and considerations to take into account in developing eligibility criteria, with a strong focus on sport bodies’ responsibility to respect the rights of all stakeholders involved.

The intention to host the EUBC Cup later in 2023 was announced, much to the delight of the audience. The Cup will have prize money of up to one million dollars for the boxers. More information will be provided very soon.

After the Congress, the EUBC Directors had a very productive Board meeting. Decisions made will soon be shared accordingly.