Four Clubs, One Historic Trophy: The Inaugural EAFF Conference League Kicks Off in Bucharest .
European amputee club football will reach another historic milestone this September as the first-ever EAFF Conference League takes place in Bucharest, Romania, from 23–25 September 2026.
Hosted by FCSB, the tournament expands the family of European club competitions and completes the structure of continental competitions alongside the EAFF Champions League and EAFF Europa League. Inspired by the European club competition model in able-bodied football, the Conference League creates an international opportunity for clubs from countries where domestic amputee football leagues are not yet established.
The inaugural edition will feature four clubs representing four different countries:
- FCSB (Romania) – Host
- Maccabi Haifa FC (Israel)
- AFAS FC (Scotland)
- Panathinaikos AC PwD (Greece)
According to the EAFF Guidelines for the European Amputee Football Conference League, national federations coordinate the participation of their respective clubs, ensuring that emerging amputee football nations also have the opportunity to compete internationally.
For every participating club, this tournament represents much more than the pursuit of a trophy—it is an opportunity to gain valuable experience, build international relationships, and contribute to the continued growth of amputee football across Europe.
A New European Chapter for Panathinaikos
For Panathinaikos AC PwD, the Conference League marks the club’s first appearance in European competition.
Head Coach Sotiris Mavromichalos believes the experience itself will be invaluable.
“Regardless of the final standings, our participation in a European event will strengthen our department and give us even more confidence moving forward. It brings us great joy that the name Panathinaikos will be heard in so many different countries—especially in the context of amputee football.”
Looking ahead to facing international opponents, he added:
“It will be particularly interesting to compete against opponents from different countries and cultures. It is a great opportunity to observe how other European clubs operate and use everything we learn to further improve our own programme.”
He also praised the significance of the competition itself.
“It is highly significant that the EAFF organizes all three European competitions that also exist in able-bodied football. These events offer unforgettable experiences to the footballers, coaches and everyone involved. I congratulate everyone who has made these tournaments possible and hope they continue every year.”
Captain Dimitris Agrianitis emphasized both the sporting ambitions and the wider impact the tournament can have.
“My expectation is for us to become truly competitive and, whether now or in the future, achieve a European distinction.”
He also highlighted the importance of international competition for the development of the sport in Greece.
“This competition will offer us valuable experience and recognition while helping promote amputee football in Greece. We hope more people living with limb loss will discover the sport and be inspired to join.”
Maccabi Haifa Ready to Make History
For Maccabi Haifa FC, participating in the inaugural Conference League is a proud moment for both the club and Israeli amputee football.
Captain Zach Shichrur said:
“As captain of Maccabi Haifa F.C. Amputee Team, it is a great honor to take part in the first-ever Conference League. This tournament is an important milestone for amputee football in Europe and for us as a club. We are coming with ambition, respect for our opponents, and pride to represent our club and our country.”
Head Coach Sharon Paz believes the event represents much more than sporting competition.
“For Maccabi Haifa F.C., participating in this tournament is much more than competition—it is about development, inclusion, and making history. Facing clubs from Romania, Scotland, and Greece shows how much amputee football is growing, and we are proud to be part of this journey.”
Hosts Ready to Welcome Europe
Tournament hosts FCSB are looking forward to welcoming Europe to Bucharest while competing in front of their home supporters.
Head Coach Daniel Boruga said:
“Our expectations are to represent FCSB and Romania with seriousness, respect, and determination. We want to perform well, be competitive in every match, and show the spirit of a united team.”
Speaking about the opposition, he added:
“We will face strong opponents with experience and quality. We respect every participating team, but we enter the tournament with confidence, ambition, and the desire to fight for every result.”
Boruga also highlighted the wider significance of the competition.
“This tournament is very important because it promotes football, fair play, and respect between teams from different countries. It offers visibility, international experience, and motivation for all the athletes involved.”
FCSB player Ștefan Dogaru believes the tournament can leave a lasting legacy.
“I expect our group to become even stronger and for every teammate to exceed their limits by giving their best on the field. I believe that will lead us to a successful result.”
On facing renowned European clubs, he said:
“They are opponents with big names in football, just like us. That doesn’t intimidate us—it gives us even greater confidence because we know we can compete at this level.”
He also underlined the impact the competition could have on Romanian amputee football.
“This tournament will help amputee football continue to grow and attract greater public attention. It will have a positive impact, especially for the Romanian public, who are not yet familiar with events like this.”
A New Tradition Begins
The inaugural EAFF Conference League represents another important step in the development of European amputee football. By creating international opportunities for emerging clubs and nations, the competition strengthens the pathway for growth while allowing more athletes to experience the excitement of European club football.
From 23–25 September, Bucharest will host four ambitious clubs united by the same goal—to make history by becoming the first-ever EAFF Conference League champions.