A message from the IBTF Leadership...

We hope this bit of history and having the opportunity to learn and understand more will enlighten you.

The International Baton Twirling Federation (IBTF) acknowledges the concerns expressed regarding the dissolution of WFNBTA and would like to provide clarity on this important transition. When the decision to dissolve the WBTF and the WFNBTA was made, it was done with the long- term interests of the sport in mind: ensuring a unified and sustainable future under one global federation.

Establishing one unified World Championship under IBTF, allows the sport to present a strong, united front on the international stage. This unification does not prevent countries, organizations, or independent event organizers from continuing to run open international and national competitions as they see fit. In fact, such events are critical to the expansion and awareness of our sport worldwide.

IBTF was established as a collaborative effort between WBTF and WFNBTA, with a shared vision of providing all athletes, coaches, and officials with clear and structured pathways for international competition. This unification strengthens the sport’s credibility, enhances athlete opportunities, and aligns baton twirling with the requirements for future recognition in global multi-sport events. The new IBTF governance applies solely to the official IBTF World Championship structure, ensuring that baton twirling has a single recognized global event that meets international sporting standards.

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IBTF remains dedicated to upholding the best interests of all athletes, regardless of their historical affiliation, and will continue working to ensure that the transition is handled with transparency, fairness, and respect for the sport’s rich traditions. We encourage our community to embrace this step forward and remain focused on the ultimate goal expanding the reach and excellence of baton twirling worldwide.
 

Thank you for reading,

The IBTF Board Executive and Technical Sport Commission Directors:
Sandi Wiemers, Nicky O’Neill, Jeff Johnson, Alessia Dolci, Fabio Ardizio, Amelie Nilsson,
Moto Tsuchiya, Paola DeMarchi, Jackie Stewart, David Doyne, and Maryse Budan