Estonia Loses European Fencing Championship over Visa Restrictions for Russian and Belarusian Athletes
Sport
The 2026 European Fencing Championship, originally scheduled to take place in Tallinn, has been moved to the French city of Antony. The International Fencing Federation (FIE) made the decision after Estonia refused to sign a document guaranteeing that all athletes could participate regardless of nationality.
Vice-Chancellor of Estonia’s Ministry of Culture for Sports, Raido Mitta, explained that Tallinn cannot guarantee entry for athletes from Russia and Belarus; visas will not be issued, and no exceptions will be made.
Estonia had been awarded the championship in 2024, but FIE rules for athletes from aggressor countries changed several times. Initially, Russian and Belarusian athletes could compete in a neutral status if not affiliated with the military. Later, restrictions were removed, and now juniors and cadets can participate under their national flag and colors.
Estonian Fencing Union Secretary General Aivar Paalberg said the decision to relocate the tournament was made on January 14, but Estonia was informed only recently.
Estonia had been awarded the championship in 2024, but FIE rules for athletes from aggressor countries changed several times. Initially, Russian and Belarusian athletes could compete in a neutral status if not affiliated with the military. Later, restrictions were removed, and now juniors and cadets can participate under their national flag and colors.
Estonian Fencing Union Secretary General Aivar Paalberg said the decision to relocate the tournament was made on January 14, but Estonia was informed only recently.
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