Serbian Rowing Federation Suspended from International Competitions Over Financial Debts

The Serbian Rowing Federation has been suspended by the Executive Committee of World Rowing due to significant financial debts. As a result, the federation will be unable to register athletes for international rowing events, including the upcoming Paris Olympics. The decision, made in accordance with Article 15 of the Statutes, comes after months of negotiations in an attempt to address the outstanding debts. The Serbian Rowing Federation’s failure to meet its financial obligations, particularly in relation to the 2022 Rowing World Cup I and the 2023 Rowing World Championships held in Belgrade, has led to this drastic consequence. According to the Federation Charter, member federations with overdue subscriptions or unpaid debts may be suspended or expelled. The suspension prohibits the federation from participating in the governance of rowing domestically and internationally, as well as hosting future international events. The Executive Committee has the authority to lift the suspension once the outstanding payments are made. Meanwhile, the Serbian Rowing Federation’s athletes and officials will be barred from competing in World Rowing events until the suspension is resolved. World Rowing, the global governing body for the sport, has been in close collaboration with the Serbian Rowing Federation and relevant authorities, and hopes for a swift resolution to this financial crisis.