World Abilitysport held its first Governing Board meeting of 2026 in Istanbul, Türkiye hosted and organised by the National Paralympic Committee of Türkiye from 28–29 January 2026. The meeting marked the first occasion that the full Governing Board convened in person, including newly appointed members Yu Chui Yee, Dr Murat Aksu, Rajesh Tomar and Marc Vergauwen.

Over the course of the meeting, Board members engaged in comprehensive and strategic discussions to finalise World Abilitysport’s 2026–2032 Strategic Plan, reinforcing the organisation’s commitment to sustainable growth, strong governance and athlete-centred development.

The Board also formally ratified two new member organisations: Fédération Française d’Escrime (FFE) and NPC Tunisia, further strengthening World Abilitysport’s global reach.

Following the addition of four new Board members, roles were reviewed and members were appointed to Committees overlooking matters such as finance, legal & ethical, membership and Games. Hong Kong’s most decorated Paralympian, Para fencer, Yu Chui Yee was unanimously appointed to lead the Athlete Commission on behalf of the World Abilitysport governed sports.

The Board determined that the Games programme would continue on the same cycle with the continued inclusion of the Guttmann Games and Beach Games, following a highly praised first edition in 2025. The Games bid process was also discussed with some exciting new bid hosts explored for the 2028 and 2029 Games.

By unanimous vote of the Governing Board, Dr Murat Aksu was appointed as 2nd Vice President of World Abilitysport, reflecting the Board’s confidence in his leadership, experience and contribution to the organisation.

Dr Murat Aksu said of his appointment, “It is a great honour for me to be appointed as 2nd Vice President of World Abilitysport and I thank my fellow Board members for their trust and confidence in selecting me for this important role. I look forward to contributing to the future of World Abilitysport over the coming term.”

During the meeting, NPC Türkiye was presented with an award in recognition of its hosting of the 1st World Abilitysport Beach Games in October 2025. World Abilitysport President Rudi Van den Abbeele commended NPC Türkiye for its open and inclusive approach and for its ongoing commitment to the growth of the Paralympic Movement.

World Abilitysport President, Rudi Van den Abbeele, expressed, “It was wonderful to be in Istanbul for our inaugural 2026 meeting with all members present. We engaged in lively discussions and ultimately reached decisive conclusions on numerous important matters for World Abilitysport over the coming four years.”

He added, “My heartfelt gratitude goes to Dr. Murat and his team at the National Paralympic Committee of Türkiye for their impeccable organisation and warm hospitality during this important meeting.”