Dear Colleagues,
Dear Friends,
November was an exceptionally busy and productive month for the EOC, marked by several significant milestones that will shape our work in the months and years ahead.
The 8th European Athletes’ Forum in London was a great success, bringing together athlete representatives from across our continent for meaningful dialogue on the issues that matter most to them. Hearing athletes’ perspectives is always invaluable , and I was particularly impressed by the quality of engagement and thoughtful contributions throughout the discussions.
I would like to extend my warmest congratulations to all the newly elected members of the EOC Athletes’ Commission, and to Johanna Talihärm for her election as Chair.
At the same time, I must express our gratitude to outgoing Chair Alistair Brownlee and the departing Commission members for their hard work and dedication.
Their contributions have been instrumental in ensuring the athlete’s voice remains central to our decision-making.
The EOC Athletes’ Commission plays a vital role in our work, and I look forward to working closely with Johanna, who will join the EOC Executive Committee, and with all Commission members as we continue to serve Europe’s athletes.
Following the Athletes’ Forum, the EOC EU Office hosted the 7th European Evening of Sport in Brussels, which proved to be an inspiring occasion that further solidified our strong relationship with the European Commission. We were honoured to welcome IOC President Kirsty Coventry and Commissioner Glenn Micallef to this special event, during which we reaffirmed our shared commitment to the autonomy of sport and the European sport model.
I am also pleased to report significant progress toward the 2027 European Games in Istanbul.
The Host Country Agreement has now been signed, and the EG 2027 Coordination Commission has been established.
We are extremely encouraged by the momentum achieved and look forward to working hand in hand with our Turkish partners to deliver an exceptional edition of the Games that will provide even more Olympic qualifying opportunities for Europe’s athletes.
The sport programme will be finalised soon and promises to be dynamic and exciting.
Finally, I had the honour of attending the Milano Cortina 2026 Olympic Winter Games Torch Lighting Ceremony in Olympia. With less than 70 days left until the Games return to Europe, excitement is building across our continent.
Our NOCs and athletes are in the final stages of their preparations, and I have every confidence that European athletes will once again demonstrate their excellence on the Olympic winter stage.
Thank you for your continued dedication and support.
With EurOlympic regards,
Spyros Capralos
EOC President
