EUROPEAN ATHLETICS FEDERATION


The European Athletics Federation (European Athletics) is the organization that manages and promotes athletics in Europe. It was founded in 1970 and is based in Lausanne, Switzerland. It is affiliated with the International Association of Athletics Federations (World Athletics) and its main mission is to promote the development of athletics in Europe and organize high-level international competitions on the continent.

European Athletics aims to increase the popularity and access to athletics at all levels, implementing development programs for young people, coaches, and referees to ensure the long-term growth of athletics. It ensures that competitions are held under the rules and standards of World Athletics.

Some of the most important competitions organized by European Athletics are:

  • European Athletics Championship. It is held every four years, being the main continental competition where the best European athletes compete.
  • European Indoor Athletics Championships. Held every two years, they focus on indoor events and usually take place during the winter.
  • European Cross Country Championship. An annual competition in which both youth and adult categories participate, with races in diverse weather conditions and terrains.
  • European Athletics Team Championships. Where countries compete in national teams, being evaluated based on the performance of their athletes in each specialty.
  • European Road Running Championships. This competition, which includes half marathon and marathon events, is the most recent on the list of championships organized by the Federation.

Like many sports organizations, European Athletics faces challenges related to doping, funding, and the impact of the pandemic on the hosting of events. Through its regulations and control programs, it has been working to strengthen the integrity of the sport.

European Athletics plays a crucial role not only in the organization of events, but also in the preservation of sports ethics and the promotion of athletics at all levels and age groups in Europe.