EWF Pulls 2026 Junior/U23 Weightlifting Euros From Poland, Awards Event to Albania

Overview

• The European Weightlifting Federation’s executive board revoked Poland’s hosting rights after it failed to provide required visa assurances for Russian and Belarusian competitors.
• Albania will host the junior and under-23 European Championships in October 2026, replacing the previously planned event in Poland.
• The tournament had been scheduled for September 23–30, 2026, in Lublin, highlighting the extent of the calendar and logistical reshuffle.
• In a formal statement, EWF reaffirmed its stance that sport should remain outside politics and underscored a commitment to inclusion and equal access for athletes.
• EWF leadership had earlier pressed the IOC to allow Russian and Belarusian athletes to compete under their national flags, signaling a broader push for reintegration.