Luca Niculescu governance program targets sports funding and athlete rewards

The governance program submitted by designated Prime Minister Luca Niculescu includes specific measures to address funding and rewards for Romanian athletes. A key priority is the settlement of outstanding prize money for international performers, including Olympic and World Championship medalists such as David Popovici.

The program outlines a timeline to pay overdue rewards with priority by December 2026, subject to legal limits and budget availability. By January 2027, the government aims to update the legal framework and simplify procedures to ensure timely future payments.

Additional measures include ensuring predictable financing for sports federations and clubs through December 2026. From 2027 to 2028, funding will be linked to specific objectives and results. The plan also supports hosting major international events in Romania, such as the Women's European Handball Championship in December 2026.