Katrine Lunde appointed chair of new IHF women's handball group

Former Norwegian goalkeeper Katrine Lunde has been appointed as the chairperson of the newly established IHF Women’s Handball Working Group. The group is tasked with implementing the International Handball Federation’s four-year plan for the 2026–2029 period.

A primary focus of the working group will be improving conditions for female athletes, specifically addressing the challenges and taboos surrounding pregnancy and motherhood in elite sports. Lunde noted the importance of negotiating contracts regarding pregnancy and ensuring that motherhood and elite athletics are not mutually exclusive.

Additionally, the group aims to create concrete transition opportunities for players retiring from professional play, helping them move into roles such as coaching, refereeing, or management. The eight-member group includes diverse professionals from various continents, including Danish coach Helle Thomsen.