SAMBO Europe in focus: key outcomes of the 38th FIAS Congress

The 38th Congress of the International SAMBO Federation (FIAS) took place in Tashkent on 6 November 2026. Delegations from member federations heard the report of the FIAS President, approved the preliminary 2027 budget, and voted to recognize SAMBO Europe as the sole body representing European SAMBO.

The Congress opened with organizational matters. On the proposal of the FIAS Executive Committee, three new national organizations were admitted: the Cambodia SAMBO Federation, the National Congolese Federation of SAMBO and Associated Disciplines (DR Congo), and the Ecuadorian SAMBO Federation. The delegates voted to expand the membership of the International SAMBO Federation.

The Congress then moved on to the main agenda. FIAS President Vasily Shestakov reported on the organization’s work over the past period and outlined the strategic priorities for the development of SAMBO internationally. The Finance Commission followed with the balance sheet and audit report for 2025, and presented the draft budget for 2027. Reports from FIAS’s specialized commissions were also heard.

In the final part of the session, delegates voted on a question put forward by the FIAS Executive Committee. The Congress officially recognized the International Sports Federation SAMBO Europe as the only authorized organization representing SAMBO in Europe.