Moldova ends public prize funding for non-Olympic sports

Moldovan Minister of Education and Research, Dan Perciun, has confirmed that the government will cease using public funds to award prizes for sporting achievements in disciplines not recognized by the International Olympic Committee (IOC).

The decision follows protests by athletes and representatives of non-Olympic federations, including the MAN Athletes Association led by Liviu Mironov, who demonstrated in front of Parliament. Protesters demanded the resignation of State Secretary Sergiu Gurin.

Perciun stated that the policy change aims to ensure public money is directed toward competitions with high levels of competitiveness, clear organizational standards, professional officiating, and strict anti-doping controls. He argued that results from competitions with varying levels of prestige and standards should not be rewarded equally.

To address concerns regarding funding cuts, the Minister noted that the total budget for rewarding sporting performances has actually increased significantly, rising from 4.4 million lei in 2021 to a projected 37 million lei in 2025.