The International Blind Sports Federation (IBSA) has announced that the 2020 IBSA Showdown European Championships, due to be held in Sofia, Bulgaria, in August, has been postponed.

As Europe begins to emerge in places from the restrictions put in place due to the coronavirus, the picture is still changing rapidly.

The European Championships could therefore not satisfy IBSA’s requirements for a return to competition. Those are: guaranteeing the safety of all participants and ensuring the accessibility of an event to participating countries.

Massimo Sanapo, Chairperson of the IBSA Showdown Committee, said: “This decision has been made by the IBSA management with the best interests of athletes in mind whilst also trying to make sure we have the best competition possible for one of our major events.

“We still plan to hold the European Championships, but not before the late summer this year and only if the conditions allow it at the time.

“I would like to thank the Local Organising Committee who have worked hard to keep everything on track despite some major challenges. We look forward to being in Sofia for a memorable Championships once we are able.”

The new dates for the 2020 IBSA Showdown European Championships will be announced shortly. The competition will be the 10th edition of the Euros in the sport.