The International Association of Ultrarunners (IAU) country representatives met today for a European meeting chaired by John Pares, IAU Europe Representative. The meeting brought together representatives from 10 European countries, alongside IAU Vice President Jacek Bedkowski, highlighting the broad geographical representation of the IAU’s European community.
The meeting provided an opportunity to share experiences and discuss developments affecting ultrarunning across Europe, as well as receive updates on upcoming IAU championships and initiatives
In attendance were:
Austria – Georg Mayer
Estonia – Aet Kisla
Finland – Tom Kinnunen
Germany – Michael Sommer
Greece – Dimitris Theodoridis
Hungary – Tamás Molnár
Latvia – Matiss Vecvagaris
Lithuania – Marius Dijokas
Sweden – Lotta Thörn
United Kingdom – Robbie Britton
IAU Vice President – Jacek Bedkowski
IAU Director of Communications – John O'Regan
Topics discussed included World Athletics regulations relating to footwear and athlete participation, the implementation of rules at national championships and IAU-labelled events, and the ongoing development of the IAU championship programme for 2027, with further announcements expected in the coming weeks.
Representatives discussed the World Athletics registration system, including some initial questions regarding the information required. The IAU will work to provide clearer guidance and supporting documentation for federations and event organisers.
Safeguarding was another important area of discussion. The IAU has already published safeguarding guidance and is developing its approach to safeguarding training, with further information expected shortly. Representatives also expressed support for expanding educational opportunities in areas such as anti-doping.
The meeting concluded with a number of follow-up actions, including improving guidance for federations, reviewing relevant World Athletics regulations, and strengthening communication between the IAU and its European representatives. The IAU currently has 42 member federations in Europe and encourages all member federations to participate in future meetings. Representatives interested in taking part should contact John Pares, Email: John.Pares@iau-ultramarathon.org
The IAU thanked everyone who participated and looks forward to continuing to strengthen communication, cooperation and collaboration among its European representatives and member federations, supporting the continued development of ultrarunning across Europe.
