Rome, 21 September 2025 – The EuroLeague Players Association (ELPA) joined fellow player unions from across the world at the World Players Association (WPA) meetings in Rome, where leaders gathered to exchange strategies, share experiences, and strengthen collective action for athletes worldwide.
The event, jointly hosted by the European Athletes & Players Association, brought together representatives from dozens of player associations, including NBPA, MLBPA, PTPA and FIFPRO. Over the two-day program, participants explored the future of global athlete representation, focusing on bargaining power, commercial opportunities, player education, and wellbeing. Participants shared key challenges and successes in their unions, reaffirming the importance of cross-union solidarity. Sessions also addressed pressing global issues, from athletes’ rights at the Olympics and Paralympics, to advances in women’s sport, to international representation at organizations such as the ILO and WADA.
“Being part of these conversations ensures that EuroLeague players have a voice in the global athlete community,” said Alexander Engelhard, ELPA Secretary General. “The challenges faced by players in different sports and regions may vary, but the common goal for unions remains the same: to protect and empower athletes, and secure fair treatment for all.”
With strong representation at this global forum, ELPA reinforced its role as a forward-thinking and committed player association – one that continues to advocate for the rights and opportunities of EuroLeague players within the broader international sports landscape.
