By CSN News Bureau CAIRO, Egypt — The international handball community is bracing for what could be one of the most consequential elections in its history. From December 19–22, 2025, the International Handball Federation (IHF) will host its presidential elections in Cairo, bringing together four prominent candidates, each with a distinctive legacy and ambitious vision for the sport.
Among them, Dr. Gerd Butzeck, nominated by the German Handball Federation (DHB), stands out for his global perspective and development-driven agenda. His campaign slogan—“Handball Deserves More”—signals a determination to take the sport beyond its traditional strongholds.
A Lifetime Devoted to Handball
Born on January 15, 1959, in Solingen, Germany, Dr. Butzeck’s life has been intertwined with handball. A former player, coach, and highly respected referee, he became the youngest Bundesliga referee at just 27 years old. This extensive, hands-on experience has provided him with rare insight into both grassroots development and international governance, positioning him uniquely for the IHF presidency.
The Presidential Race: Four Candidates, One Future
The 2025 IHF elections feature four internationally recognized figures:
-
Dr. Gerd Butzeck (Germany)
-
Dr. Hassan Moustafa (Egypt)
-
Mr. Franc Bobinac (Slovakia)
-
Mr. Tjark de Lange (Netherlands)
While each candidate brings expertise, Dr. Butzeck’s emphasis on global expansion, innovation, and governance reform has resonated particularly with emerging handball nations.
“Handball Deserves More”: A Vision for Growth and Modernization
Dr. Butzeck’s platform prioritizes modernization, transparency, and global development. Key objectives include:
-
Implementing technological innovations to modernize the sport
-
Strengthening governance through transparency and accountability
-
Expanding handball into untapped regions and high-population countries
-
Creating sustainable development pathways for emerging federations
His approach is inclusive, long-term, and designed to elevate handball worldwide—not just within Europe.
South Asia: A New Frontier
Dr. Butzeck’s vision aims to change that:
-
Establishing regional training hubs
-
Improving access to coaching and refereeing education
-
Creating structured pathways for young athletes
-
Partnering with governments and federations for long-term development
-
Elevating South Asia to a competitive international presence
For the first time, a presidential candidate has highlighted South Asia not as an afterthought but as a central focus of handball development.
Why Dr. Butzeck’s Leadership Matters
-With Andrej Lavrov, triple Olympic Champion-
Equal opportunities for players across continents
-
Modernized governance and federation processes
-
Strengthened collaboration between developing and established nations
-
Expansion into new markets and regions
With a combination of practical experience, diplomatic skill, and strategic vision, he stands out as a transformative figure in the sport.
Looking Ahead: A New Era for Global Handball
As the elections in Cairo approach, handball fans worldwide are watching closely. For South Asia, Dr. Gerd Butzeck represents opportunity, growth, and a chance to finally emerge on the international stage.
If his vision becomes reality, countries like Nepal, India, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka may soon benefit from the resources, training, and pathways needed to compete globally. This December could mark the beginning of a new chapter in handball’s history—and South Asia is ready.