News

A Moment to Clarify, a Call to Unite 

In response to the latest communications from the Fédération Internationale d'Escrime (FIE), including its recent press release claiming that “fencing chooses peace,” the Bureau of the European Fencing Confederation (EFC) has issued an open letter reaffirming its commitment to peace, fairness, and unity — and calling for a truly collaborative approach to solving the ongoing crisis affecting our sport. 

The EFC strongly emphasises that peace cannot be declared unilaterally. It must be built together — through dialogue, mutual respect, and transparent, inclusive processes. Unfortunately, despite multiple efforts to engage in open negotiations, the EFC’s calls have been either overlooked or dismissed. 

The European Perspective: An Overlooked Stakeholder 

A core concern outlined in the letter is the lack of consultation with the European Zone — the only zone directly impacted by Russia’s actions in Ukraine. Despite this central role, European voices have been absent from critical decision-making processes. 

The EFC reminds that the Russian Fencing Federation remains suspended from EFC membership following the Russian Olympic Committee’s unlawful annexation of Ukrainian clubs — an act that not only breaches international sporting norms but has also led to the suspension of the Russian NOC by the International Olympic Committee (IOC). 

Fencing’s Role as a Bridge for Peace 

The EFC reiterates its belief in fencing’s potential to serve as a bridge between divided communities. But true unity cannot exist without dialogue and compromise. The Bureau urges the FIE to take meaningful steps that include all federations in shaping the sport’s future. As President Pascal Tesch puts it: “We need to talk with one another, not about the other.” 

Support for the IOC Framework 

The EFC strongly supports the IOC’s principled recommendations on athlete participation during times of conflict. These guidelines are designed to maintain integrity while offering neutral athletes a path to compete — but only within clearly defined limits. 

Concerns Over Neutrality and Teams 

A key issue raised in the letter is the lack of independent verification in the eligibility process for so-called neutral athletes. The EFC questions whether internal mechanisms can deliver the impartiality required under IOC standards and calls for third-party oversight to restore credibility. 

While the EFC acknowledges the concept of Athlete Individual Neutral (AIN) status as a possible tool for dialogue, it rejects any interpretation that allows AIN teams to form. As stressed in the letter, the IOC clearly states: “A group of AIN is not a team.” Allowing teams under a neutral label contradicts the principle of non-representation. 

The Path Forward: Fairness, Transparency, Peace 

In closing, the EFC calls upon the FIE and the wider international community to take the following steps: 

• Engage in genuine and fair dialogue that recognises Europe’s central position in this conflict. 

• Guarantee the independence and transparency of athlete verification procedures. 

• Strictly follow IOC recommendations on neutrality and eligibility. 

• Uphold the dignity and rights of all athletes — especially those impacted by war. 

The EFC stands firm in its commitment to a fencing world that reflects the highest values of sport — not just in word, but in action. 

On behalf of the Bureau of the European Fencing Confederation 
Pascal Tesch 
President 
president@fencing-efc.eu 

Open Letter to the FIE