Malta, European Aquatics step up cooperation on inclusive water polo

European Aquatics and the Aquatic Sports Association of Malta have agreed to strengthen cooperation aimed at promoting more inclusive participation in water polo.

In a statement, the European governing body said that the agreement was reached during a coordination meeting in Malta between European Aquatics and the Aquatic Sports Association of Malta (ASA).

“The discussions focused on developing initiatives that make the sport more accessible to athletes with disabilities and expanding inclusive programmes within the European water polo calendar,” the statement said.

Waterpolo Ability Malta (WAM) is working with European Aquatics and the ASA to develop the structured programme. The discussions focused on embedding Water Polo Inclusion (WPI) within the European Aquatics long-term development strategy and strengthening cooperation in Malta throughout 2026.

Officials said a dedicated coordination group will be set up to oversee the initiative, while athlete eligibility and classification criteria for inclusive water polo competitions are expected to be defined by the end of March.

The two organisations also discussed linking inclusion initiatives to major events due to be held in Malta, including the 2026 men’s and women’s Champions League Final Four tournaments.

European Aquatics said the partnership forms part of a broader effort to expand participation in aquatic sports and ensure that water polo becomes more accessible across its member federations.