Paddle Europe activities Q1 2026

The first quarter of 2026 marks a turning point for our Continental Federation. With the transition from ECA to Paddle Europe, the inauguration of our new headquarters in Lausanne, and the strengthening of our international partnerships, particularly with Azerbaijan, our movement enters a new phase of modernisation, visibility, and strategic expansion. 

In January, the European Canoe Association (ECA) officially adopted its new name: Paddle Europe. 

This strategic transformation, approved at the 17th Ordinary Congress held in Budapest in March 2025, reflects a broader evolution in both identity and governance, accompanied by updated statutes. 

This change is driven by three key objectives: 

• Modernisation & Accessibility: A simpler, more recognizable name for media, partners, and the general public  
• Unity & Inclusivity: Bringing together all paddle disciplines—sprint, slalom, marathon, SUP, paracanoe, and more—under one unified banner  
• Strategic Vision: Strengthening leadership in the development and promotion of paddle sports across Europe  

Prepared throughout late 2025, the transition became fully operational in January 2026 and is now reflected across all championships and events. 

This evolution aligns with the broader transformation of the International Canoe Federation, which is expected to adopt the name Paddle Worldwide at its Congress in Oklahoma (USA) in July 2026. 

A transitional logo has been introduced, maintaining continuity with the previous identity while paving the way for a future harmonized visual identity across International and Continental Federations. This will be supported by the upcoming launch of a new ICF digital platform and website. 

A historic milestone for Paddle Europe 

On March 28, Paddle Europe officially inaugurated its new headquarters in Lausanne, Switzerland, at the heart of the Maison Internationale du Sport, alongside the International Canoe Federation. 

Founded in 1993 in Rome and officially recognized by the ICF in 1994, the former ECA had operated from Croatia for over three decades. As the organisation evolved, relocating its headquarters became a strategic necessity. 

This move ensures: 

• A modern and professional base of operations  
• A strong legal framework  
• Enhanced visibility and long-term growth opportunities  

Following a comprehensive selection process involving national federations, the Paddle Europe Board confirmed Lausanne as the new legal seat on January 26. 

The inauguration coincided with the first Board meeting at the new headquarters, attended by: 

• Thomas Konietzko, President of the International Canoe Federation  
• Ilja Vyslouzil, President of the Swiss Canoe Federation  
• Jeremias Schlaefli, Secretary General of the Swiss Canoe Federation 

This new location marks the beginning of a new chapter, offering: 

• Stronger institutional foundations  
• Increased international visibility  
• Strategic proximity to the Olympic Movement and global sports ecosystem  

A decisive step forward for the future of paddle sports in Europe. 

Expanding opportunities in Eastern Europe 

In March, Paddle Europe held a key visit to Baku, Azerbaijan, including a high-level meeting with Ali Asadov, Prime Minister of Azerbaijan, alongside Thomas Konietzko. 

Discussions focused on both geopolitical context and opportunities to accelerate the development of paddle sports across Eastern Europe. 

The delegation visited major sports infrastructure, including: 

• The Karabakh reservoirs (Sarsang and Sugovushan)  
• The Olympic Training Centre in Mingachevir  
• Future sites planned for a whitewater stadium  

These visits allowed for direct engagement with athletes, coaches, and international training groups, as well as an assessment of the region’s potential to host major European and international competitions. 

The visit concluded with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Paddle Europe and the Azerbaijan water Sports Federation, represented by Vugar Ahmadov, in the presence of Farid Gayibov, Minister of Sport. 

This agreement builds on a partnership initiated in 2023 and aims to position Azerbaijan as a key development hub for paddle sports in Eastern Europe, while strengthening connections with Asia. 

Key areas of collaboration include: 

• Athlete and coach education through training camps and seminars  
• Development of regional and international competitions  
• Construction of a whitewater slalom facility and potential European training centre  
• Enhanced communication and promotion of Paddle Europe activities  
• Strategic partnerships with Asian canoeing federations  

This MoU reflects a shared ambition to accelerate growth, create new opportunities, and strengthen the sport’s presence in the region. 

The first meeting of the Athletes’ Committee, chaired by Monica Doria, took place in March. 

Key topics included: 

• Committee structure and governance  
• Representation of non-Olympic disciplines  
• Athlete roles within Paddle Europe structures  
• Responsibilities during championships  

New Paddle Europe medals were also presented for feedback, and discussions were held on the allocation of accreditation fee revenues.

The Recreational Committee members have been recruited, and the Committee terms of reference have been approved by the Paddle Europe Board.  The Committee is comprised of three female and two male members (excluding Paddle Europe Board oversight) with extensive experience in the recreational sector. 

A recent survey of Paddle Europe NFs confirmed the findings of the 2023 ECA survey, identifying the following areas of shared interest: 

Harmonisation of educational resources & training: (91% Important/Very Important). 

Safety and Skills awareness: (91% Important/Very Important). 

Shared Recreational Events calendar: (73% Important/Very Important) 

The Committee will work closely with the European Paddle Pass group to progress the safety and educational aims.

The European calendar of recreational events and dissemination of information regarding access and waterways across Europe will be the focus of the recreational committee. 

• Definition of a recreational event. 
• Categorisation of events suitable for the Paddle Europe calendar. 
• Analysis of events (links) submitted via the recent survey.  

The Recreational page on the Paddle Europe website is being populated with valuable material for recreational paddlers, however, the Committee is awaiting the release of the new Paddle Europe website before fully uploading all available materials. 

The Committee, chaired by Gabrielle Koch, is establishing valuable links with the recreational community in Europe.  Identifying the best contact within each NF is progressing.  As a new area of focus for Paddle Europe, establishing these connections is vital for progression.  

Under the leadership of Peter Karai, the Finance Committee met on March 18. 

Main topics included: 

• 2026 strategic priorities  
• Review of the 2025 financial results  
• Monitoring of the 2026 budget  
• Updates to Paddle Europe’s financial regulations  
• Implementation of accreditation fee systems  

Proposed regulatory updates will be submitted to the Board for approval. 

For the first time, a season launch meeting was organised on February 19, bringing together all organisers of the 2026 European Championships, alongside the Paddle Europe Board and discipline committee chairs. In total, 11 European Championships will be hosted across eight countries this year. 

Objectives of the Season Launch Meeting 

Strengthen connections between federations, organisers, discipline committees, and Board members 

Improve event quality by sharing best practices 

Discuss cross‑cutting topics (e.g. sustainability, implementation of the new name) 

Share key updates affecting event organisation: Paddle Europe’s new name, New logo, Hosting Paddle Europe partners during events, role of the Athletes’ Committee during championships 

Officially launch the 2026 season 

This initiative enhances coordination and contributes to ensure a consistent, high‑quality championship experience across all disciplines. 

The call for bids to host the 2028 European Championships is now open. 

Deadline to express interest: April 20, 2026 

A comprehensive support framework has been developed to assist candidate organisers, including new online resources available to national federations. 

The Paddle Europe Board met twice during this period: 

• January 26 – Confirmation of Lausanne as the new headquarters  
• March 28–29 – First in-person meeting at the new headquarters  

Key topics discussed included: 

• Headquarters establishment progress  
• Accreditation and participation fees  
• Financial regulation updates  
• Ocean Racing regulations  
• 2026 competition calendar and season planning  
• Human resources and education strategy  
• Erasmus+ projects  
• Insurance matters  
• Participation of neutral athletes in 2026 championships  
• Review of ICF governance developments  

With a new identity, a new headquarters, and strengthened international partnerships, Paddle Europe is entering a dynamic new phase—driven by innovation, inclusivity, and growth across all paddle disciplines.