AIPS Sets Reform Agenda As Merlo Secures Sixth Term

AIPS Sets Reform Agenda As Merlo Secures Sixth Term

By Our Reporter 

The 88th Congress of the International Sports Press Association (AIPS) concluded with key decisions shaping the future of global sports journalism, including leadership continuity, governance reforms, and increased African representation.

Italian journalist Gianni Merlo was re-elected president, securing a sixth term with 75 percent of the vote. He defeated Hungary’s Csisztu Zsuzsa in an election that followed the late withdrawal of South Korea’s Hee Don Jung.

A significant outcome of the congress was Africa’s growing influence within the organization. Kenyan sports journalist Evelyne Watta was elected First Vice-President, marking the first time an African has held the position in AIPS history.

Delegates also approved a series of governance reforms aimed at strengthening institutional structure and accountability. Among the measures adopted were the introduction of term limits—now capped at three terms—and a new age restriction barring individuals over 75 from contesting seats on the Executive Committee.

The congress brought together representatives from 111 countries, including Mali, whose delegation featured sports journalists Oumar Baba Traoré and Alou Badra Haidara.

In addition, AIPS confirmed that Ethiopia will host both the African and World Congress in 2027, further underlining the continent’s growing prominence within the global sports media landscape.