The Union Internationale Motonautique (UIM) held its 98th General Assembly in Shanghai this week, an event that brought together more than a hundred delegates from around the world and confirmed the continuity of Raffaele Chiulli as head of the organization. The Italian official was re-elected by acclamation for a new four-year term as president of the federation recognized by the International Olympic Committee.

The event, organized by the Government of Baoshan District and the China WaterSki, Underwater & Powerboat Federation, was preceded by the second consecutive edition of the F1H2O World Championship Grand Prix, staged in the waters of the modern Baoshan Cruise Terminal.

Chiulli receives renewed international support

During the Assembly, all member federations expressed unanimous support for Chiulli, who will continue leading the UIM until 2029. Alongside him, Vahur Joala (Estonia) was confirmed as Administrator and Karel Kramer (Czech Republic) secured the second available mandate.

“I am deeply honored by the confidence of the member federations who have overwhelmingly renewed their support for my leadership to further raise the quality and appeal of international powerboating,” said Chiulli after his re-election.

The UIM President underlined that his efforts will focus on strengthening safety, accessibility and inclusion, while keeping sustainability at the core. “Together we will continue advancing the quality, safety and global appeal of our sport, which combines passion, innovation and sustainability. Among our priorities are environmental responsibility, youth development and inclusivity,” he added.

New members and institutional strengthening

The General Assembly ratified the admission of Vietnam, Georgia, Morocco and Nepal as full members, while the China Macau MotoSurf Federation, the Croatian Powerboat Club and Austria’s Club RSC Regau were accepted as non-voting members. In addition, the financial report, which reflected a profit for the 2024 fiscal year, was approved.

Chiulli also expressed gratitude to the hosts: “My heartfelt thanks to the Government of China, the city of Shanghai and Baoshan District for their warm hospitality and excellent organization of this memorable event, as well as to UIM Honorary President Prince Albert of Monaco, represented at the Assembly by Ambassador Marie-Pascale Boisson.”

With the renewal of his leadership and the support of the federations, the UIM heads into the coming years with a strategy focused on sustainability, youth development and inclusion, reinforcing its status as a global benchmark in powerboating.