ETTU President Calls Istanbul 2027 Games Planning Meeting Positive as Program Expands to 26 Sports

Context During a visit to the WTT Feeder Istanbul venue, Moura met with Prof. Dr. Veli Ozan Çakır, president of the Türkiye Olympic Committee and ITTF Executive Vice President, as well as Türkiye Table Tennis Association leader Kerim Koç. The gathering focused on preparations for the fourth European Games, scheduled for 2027 in Istanbul, and on broader strategies for table‑tennis development.

Key Facts Moura said the dialogue was “very positive” and emphasized that strong cooperation between federations and sports institutions is essential for building the sport’s future. Table tennis remains a confirmed sport on the Istanbul programme. The Games will host 26 sports and disciplines, of which 22 align with the Olympic program for Los Angeles 2028, positioning the event as a key Olympic‑qualification pathway.

Three sports—rowing beach sprint, weightlifting and squash—are new to the European Games roster. Meanwhile, gymnastics, volleyball and wrestling return after missing the 2023 edition in Kraków‑Małopolska. The expanded lineup aims to attract a broader athlete base and increase the event’s commercial appeal.

What It Means Moura’s endorsement signals alignment between European table‑tennis authorities and Turkish organizers, potentially smoothing logistical and qualification processes for athletes. The addition of new sports expands the Games’ marketability and may boost ticket sales and broadcast interest. Restoring gymnastics, volleyball and wrestling restores continuity for athletes who rely on the European Games for exposure and ranking points.

Stakeholders will watch how the expanded programme influences qualification slots for Los Angeles 2028 and whether the cooperation model Moura praised becomes a template for future multi‑sport events. The next milestone will be the official release of the Istanbul 2027 competition schedule and qualification criteria.