ICF congress unanimously votes to continue its campaign for SUP oversight

ICF Congress Backs SUP Oversight, Expands Anti-Doping

The International Canoe Federation (ICF) congress in Budapest unanimously voted to continue its efforts to oversee stand-up paddling (SUP). This decision comes despite the cancellation of the 2018 World Championships due to a legal challenge by the Portuguese and International Surfing Association, a situation that ICF Vice-President Thomas Konietzko noted caused significant disappointment within the SUP community. Several countries have already expressed interest in hosting an ICF SUP World Championship in 2019.

New Eurosport Deal and Governance Improvements

A significant announcement from ICF Secretary-General Simon Toulson revealed a new Eurosport agreement, ensuring live television coverage for all Canoe Sprint and Canoe Slalom World Cup events over the next two years. This deal, which also includes extreme canoe slalom, is seen as a major endorsement for the sport, particularly as it builds towards the Tokyo 2020 Olympics. Furthermore, the congress approved an expansion of mandatory anti-doping education to include all senior international athletes, a crucial step for athlete integrity.

Internally, the ICF passed several statute changes aimed at improving governance and transparency, strengthening its international standing. Workshops across all ten ICF disciplines discussed common strategies, acknowledging the federation's strength in its diverse flatwater and whitewater competitions, while also recognizing challenges like limited resources and a packed calendar. The 2020 congress is set to take place in the Philippines, where elections for the ICF President and board members will be held.

[go to the magazine: paddleworldwide]

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