On the sidelines of the European Wrestling Championships in Bratislava, Karl-Martin Dittmann was re-elected as President of United World Wrestling Europe, reaffirming his leadership at the helm of the continent’s governing body for the sport. The vote, held during the UWW-Europe Council elections, marked a moment of both continuity and renewal for wrestling across the region.
The elections, which determined seven Executive Committee seats, attracted 11 nominations. With 33 votes cast, candidates needed at least 17 to be elected. Four incumbent members—including Dittmann—retained their positions, while three newcomers joined the council, ushering in a fresh chapter for UWW Europe.
REAFFIRMED LEADERSHIP
Dittmann’s re-election comes as little surprise to those familiar with his long-standing dedication to wrestling. Since becoming Secretary-General of the German Wrestling Federation in 2001, he has steadily risen through the ranks of international governance. His appointment to the UWW Bureau in 2014 and his assumption of the UWW Europe presidency in 202 following the passing of Tseno Tsenov, were key milestones in a career defined by service to the sport.
Under his stewardship, UWW Europe has navigated challenges ranging from the COVID-19 pandemic to growing calls for transparency, modernization, and inclusivity. His re-election reflects the confidence national federations place in his ability to guide the organization through an evolving sports landscape.
CONTINUITY AND CHANGE
Dittmann is joined by fellow re-elected members Razvan Pircalabu (ROU), who continues as Vice-President, Csilla Ali (HUN), who remains Secretary, and Georgy Bryusov (RUS). Their sustained presence offers institutional continuity and experience for the wrestling community.
At the same time, the election brought in new energy with the arrival of first-time members Yusif Abbasov (SRB), Edisher Machaidze (GEO), and Salvatore Finizio (ITA), each securing majority support. Their presence is seen as part of a generational refresh, with hopes they will bring new ideas and broader regional representation to the council’s work.
In a further development, former council member Onder Yaksi (TUR) was approved as a co-opted member by the General Assembly, a sign of his continued value to UWW Europe even outside the framework of direct election.
With a blend of seasoned leadership and fresh perspectives, the newly composed council faces the task of strengthening the sport’s presence across Europe while adapting to new challenges and opportunities on and off the mat.
