The European Fencing Confederation has welcomed the conclusion of the 2026 FIE World Championships in Hong Kong by highlighting Europe's continued leadership in world fencing and reaffirming its commitment to the long-term development of the sport. While the outstanding performances of European athletes are a source of pride, the Confederation emphasises that lasting success is built through sustained investment in young athletes, coaches and national federations.
European Success on the World Stage
The championships once again confirmed the exceptional strength and consistency of European fencing. European athletes won 25 of the 42 medals awarded, including 10 of the 12 world titles, seven silver medals and eight bronze medals—nearly 60% of all podium finishes in Hong Kong. Seven of the top eight nations in the final medal table represented the European Fencing Confederation, while athletes from 11 European countries returned home with medals. Italy topped the standings with four gold medals, underlining the depth of talent across the continent.
These achievements are a source of great pride for the European Fencing Confederation. More importantly, however, they demonstrate that long-term investment in athlete development continues to deliver success at the highest level of international competition.
Success Does Not Begin at the World Championships
World Championship medals are earned long before athletes step onto the biggest stage. Behind every podium finish stands a network of clubs, coaches, referees, volunteers, national federations and families who guide young fencers throughout their sporting journey.
One of the most important milestones along that pathway is the European Cadet Circuit. While the World Championships represent the pinnacle of the sport, the Cadet Circuit provides young athletes with their first opportunities to compete internationally, experience different fencing styles and perform under pressure. As discussed during the recent EFC Conference, the Circuit is far more than a calendar of competitions—it is a strategic investment in the future of fencing, helping young athletes develop not only their technical abilities but also their confidence, values and international outlook.
European Leadership Comes with Responsibility
For the European Fencing Confederation, leadership is measured by more than success on the medal table.
The Confederation believes that Europe's achievements bring with them a responsibility to contribute to the growth of fencing worldwide. As highlighted during the EFC Conference, the role of the EFC is not only to celebrate excellence but also to create opportunities for excellence to develop across the global fencing community.
The success of European athletes in Hong Kong should not be seen as a barrier between continents but as an invitation to strengthen international cooperation.
The EFC remains fully committed to working closely with the FIE, the Asian Fencing Confederation, the Pan-American Fencing Confederation, the African Fencing Confederation and national federations around the world. Building on the constructive discussions initiated during the EFC Conference in Paris, the Confederation looks forward to continuing this dialogue at the upcoming FIE International Conference in Tashkent. Sharing knowledge, exchanging best practices, supporting organisers and creating more opportunities for young athletes benefits the entire fencing community.
The performances witnessed in Hong Kong reaffirm that European fencing continues to set the standard at the highest level of international competition. They also serve as a reminder that today's success is built on yesterday's investment in youth.
The European Cadet Circuit will therefore continue to play a central role in preparing the next generation of champions, while the European Fencing Confederation remains committed to working alongside its international partners to strengthen fencing at every level.
European excellence. Global collaboration. One future for fencing.
