YORK, United Kingdom — The historic city of York, famed for its Roman and Viking heritage, served as the backdrop for a grueling display of endurance and mental fortitude as it hosted the International Union of Kettlebell Lifting (IUKL) European Championship from May 14–17, 2026.
The four-day event, held at the York Stadium Leisure Complex, drew elite lifters from more than 20 countries. Competitors faced a fiercely competitive field, with the tournament testing the absolute physical limits of the athletes through months of preparation culminating in high-intensity, high-rep performances on the platform.
The organizers did an amazing job ensuring the event ran seamlessly, drawing widespread praise from international delegations for its execution. Across all age groups—ranging from the Youth U16/U18 divisions to the seasoned Senior classes—the athletes delivered standout performances, making it a truly spectacular competition from start to finish.
