Ukraine could be on the verge of stepping away from international handball, with the Ukrainian Handball Federation warning that it will “very likely” have to withdraw all of its teams from international competitions due to the country’s financial and security situation.
The federation says soaring logistical costs, difficult conditions at the Ukrainian border and waiting times of up to 15 hours are making international travel increasingly difficult. After five years of war, the federation says it has been forced to consider the move, while prioritising the women’s national team’s participation in the European Championship and the continuation of its domestic championships.
The federation stresses that the information is preliminary, with an official letter to the EHF, IHF and relevant federations and organisations expected to be sent on Friday.
GoHandball publishes the Ukrainian Handball Federation’s full statement below:
Dear Handball Friends,
Unfortunately, I have to inform you that, due to the extremely difficult financial and security situation, the Ukrainian Handball Federation will very likely have to withdraw all of its teams from international competitions.
In addition, we are facing extremely high logistical costs and very difficult conditions at the Ukrainian border, with waiting times of up to 15 hours. These circumstances make international travel increasingly difficult and place an additional significant financial burden on the Federation and our teams.
We will focus on the participation of our Women’s National Team in the European Championship, as well as on the organization and continuation of the national championships.
This is initially a preliminary information. By Friday, we will send an official letter to the EHF and IHF as well as to all relevant federations and organizations involved.
Unfortunately, after five years of war, we find ourselves forced to make this difficult decision.
Thank you very much for your understanding and support.
Best regards,
Sasha Gladun
Secretary General
Ukrainian Handball Federation