Rumors about a possible relocation of the tournament began to emerge as early as the end of 2025. According to information from the Estonian public broadcaster ERR, the FIE requested written confirmation from Estonia that all participants would be able to cross the border without hindrance, regardless of their nationality or military status.
However, the Estonian authorities refused to provide such a document. Raido Mitta, the Vice-Chancellor of the Estonian Ministry of Culture for Sports, noted that Tallinn cannot guarantee free entry for all athletes.
He emphasized that the country's position remains unwavering: visas for athletes from Russia and Belarus are not being issued, and no exceptions will be made.
Thus, the FIE made the decision to move the European Championship to France.
