The European Muaythai Federation (EMF) Board of Directors met in Athens during the European Muaythai Championships 2025 to review ongoing developments and set the strategic direction for the coming years.
The meeting opened with remarks from EMF President Hasan Yıldız, followed by a welcome from EMF Vice President and President of the Panhellenic Muaythai Federation, John Papadopoulos, as host of the Championships.
The Board addressed a comprehensive agenda, including:
The EC2025 Championship Report
A technical update presented by IFMA Technical Delegate Dr Erdoğan
Candidate countries for the 2026 and 2027 European Championships
Updates on the IFMA International Antalya Open Cup and other regional and continental events
The Balkan Open Cup 2025 Report, and future Balkan Championships and Cups for 2026 and 2027
Development projects and international cooperation initiatives
Commission and EMF Office reports
The European Elite Muaythai League
Discussions, recommendations, and planning of the next meeting
Future Hosts and Major Events
The Board reviewed candidate hosts for upcoming championships. Paris, France was confirmed as the leading candidate for the 2026 European Championships, while Armenia and Hungary were discussed as candidates for 2027. The 2026 Mediterranean Muaythai Championships are slated for Portugal, and Hungary was highlighted for future Balkan events.
The Board also endorsed a calendar adjustment for the IFMA International Antalya Open Cup, which will now be held annually in March rather than December. The next edition is scheduled for 25–29 March 2025.
European Elite Muaythai League to Launch
A major highlight of the meeting was the launch plan for the European Elite Muaythai League, set to become one of Europe’s flagship muaythai competitions. The inaugural edition will take place in Balıkesir, Türkiye.
EMF leaders from Turkey, France, Italy, Germany, the Czech Republic, Hungary, Ukraine, and Greece confirmed their readiness and support for the league.
President Hasan Yıldız announced that preparations will officially begin with an online meeting on 15 December 2025, and extended his appreciation to all Board Members for their continued commitment and collaboration.
