Henrik Nilsson. Photo: FIB
Henrik Nilsson, The President of FIB, has resigned with immediate effect due to differing views between himself and the rest of the FIB Executive Committee (EC) regarding the integration of Russia and Belarus.
As a recognized International Federation (IF), FIB follows the recommendations of the International Olympic Committee (IOC). The IOC recently recommended that youth athletes from Russia and all athletes from Belarus should no longer be restricted from participating in international competitions.
However, these recommendations were not implemented immediately or automatically. The FIB EC established and approved an Integration Working Group – including the Chair of the Athletes Committee – to coordinate with relevant stakeholders, assess the ongoing situation, and submit recommendations to the FIB EC regarding the integration of Russian and Belarusian teams into FIB competitions.
Contrary to statements made by Mr. Nilsson in the Swedish media, no representatives of FIB have recently visited Russia, and Kazakhstan was never part of these discussions.
In accordance with Article 28.4 of the FIB Statutes, First Vice President Stein Pedersen will assume the powers and duties of the President.
The FIB EC will meet to discuss the situation and determine the necessary next steps. Stakeholders will be informed as soon as possible.