LAUSANNE, April 12, 2026 – Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, is set to host the 2027 International Sports Press Association (AIPS) Congress, as announced at the conclusion of the 88th annual congress in Lausanne, Switzerland. The decision, made in a unanimous vote, marks a significant occasion for Ethiopia, highlighting its resurgence in the international sports arena.
At the congress, Gianni Merlo was entrusted with another and final four-year term as the president of AIPS. His association with Ethiopia goes back years, fondly recalling an executive committee meeting held in the nation 12 years ago as “a great experience.” Merlo expressed enthusiasm about returning to Addis Ababa, stating, “To come to Addis Ababa for the congress is a great honor and pleasure. We expect participants from more than 100 countries; it will be a great show. We will discuss the future of journalism, which will remain the most important matter on our agenda.”
Merlo also looks forward to reconnecting with his friend and Ethiopian athletics legend Haile Gebrselassie, emphasizing the successful partnerships formed over the years. He extended gratitude to the Ethiopian Sports Journalists Association for their keen interest in hosting the congress, predicting a successful gathering complete with a media award ceremony.
Niway Yimer, President of the Ethiopian Sports Journalists Association (ESJA) presenting Ethiopia’s bid to host the 2027 AIPS Congress (Photo by Carlo Pozzoni/AIPS Media)
Historically, Ethiopia has been a formidable presence in global sports, playing a foundational role in the Confederation of African Football (CAF) and hosting the Africa Cup of Nations three times, winning in 1962. However, the nation has been perceived by some as a “sleeping giant” following the passing of its legendary sports leader, Yidnekatchew Tessema Eshete, who presided over CAF from 1972 to 1987.
Ethiopia remains a powerhouse in athletics, renowned globally as a “land of runners” due to its consistent success across generations in events like the Olympics and World Championships.
Niway Yimer, President of the Ethiopian Sports Journalists Association (ESJA), expressed excitement about the upcoming event, saying, “We are thrilled to welcome the world’s best sports storytellers to Ethiopia. The significance of the event is multifaceted, serving as a platform to connect professionals, learn from the best, and acknowledge outstanding journalism. It will also showcase what Ethiopia represents to the world.”
This Congress hosting aligns with Ethiopia’s ambition to reestablish its presence on the global sports map. With ongoing construction and finalization of sports facilities both in the capital and beyond, the nation is gearing up to accommodate numerous international sports events.
In addition to hosting the 2027 AIPS Congress, Ethiopia has secured the right to host the COP32 global climate congress in November 2027 and is officially bidding for the 2028 Africa Cup of Nations and the 2029/31 World Athletics Championships hosting rights.
Leave a Reply