International canoeing community mobilizes support for Ukrainian athletes

European Federations Rally to Support Ukrainian Athletes

National canoe federations across Europe have demonstrated immense solidarity with their Ukrainian counterparts, extending offers of complimentary accommodation and comprehensive support to athletes displaced by the conflict.

Despite this outpouring of generosity, many athletes continue to face severe financial challenges, as monetary transfers within Ukraine remain suspended, leaving them without access to essential funds.

ICF President Coordinates Aid Efforts

Thomas Konietzko, President of the International Canoe Federation (ICF), recently convened with more than 120 Ukrainian athletes currently stranded in Turkey due to the ongoing crisis in their homeland. Mr. Konietzko assured the group, comprising 51 senior athletes, 51 juniors, and 25 paracanoe athletes, that the international community had responded with remarkable generosity to calls for assistance.

Significant relocation plans are already underway:

• A substantial portion of the team is preparing to travel to Romania, where the national federation has graciously provided accommodation and full board at their elite performance facility.
• Another contingent of athletes will be heading to Bulgaria.
• Junior athletes have secured placements in various countries, including Poland, Hungary, France, Germany, and Estonia.

Mr. Konietzko noted that while much progress has been made, suitable lodging is still required for 25 paracanoe athletes, five of whom use wheelchairs. He expressed strong confidence in the community's ability to unite and address this remaining need.

A Call for Sustained Support

The ICF President lauded the swift and compassionate response from federations, particularly highlighting the "generosity of our friends at the Romanian Canoe Federation and other federations throughout Europe." He remarked...

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