AUSTRALIAN WATER POLO TEAMS WITHDRAW FROM 2022 FISU WORLD UNIVERSITY GAMES

Water Polo Australia (WPA) has made the decision to withdraw it's Australian water polo teams for the FISU World University Games that are due to be held in Chengdu, China from June 20 to July 8 2022.

Following consultation with the Australian Federal Police through Sport Integrity Australia, and a review of current DFAT travel advice, WPA has made the decision with the safety of its members front of mind combined with a scheduling clash with the FINA World Championships in Budapest and FINA Youth World Championships in Serbia.

WPA CEO Richard McInnes said that although it’s a disappointing decision, the safety of Australia’s water polo teams is of the most importance.

“Water Polo Australia recognises that the FISU World University Games is an important competition, and we hope to compete at the event in the future, however we will not be sending teams to the 2022 edition,” McInnes said.

“After consultation with other countries and national sporting organisations, as well as advice received from security officials, we think this is the best decision for the safety of our athletes and coaches.

“While it’s disappointing that we won’t be sending teams to the upcoming FISU World University Games, changes to the FINA international calendar has meant that there will be other opportunities for our players to represent their country on the world stage.

“We wish to thank our members for their support in this decision, and look forward to supporting our Australian teams participating in other international competitions this year,” he said.