The international handball community is gearing up for a pivotal moment as the International Handball Federation (IHF) Presidential Election approaches in the third week of December 2025. The election will take place during the 40th Ordinary IHF Congress in Cairo, Egypt, from 19-22 December 2025, where delegates from around the world will decide the future direction of one of the fastest-growing global sports.
This year’s election is shaping up to be one of the most competitive ever, with two prominent names on the ballot:
- Hassan Moustafa—the 81-year-old incumbent IHF president.
- Gerd Butzeck—a vastly experienced German handball official backed by strong global support.
Among the two, Gerd Butzeck has emerged as the preferred and more future-ready candidate, especially for nations seeking growth, modernization, and global expansion of handball.
Hassan Moustafa: A Long Tenure Nearing Its End
Hassan Moustafa, born in 1944, has been at the helm of the International Handball Federation since 2000. Before that, he served multiple terms as the President of the Egyptian Handball Federation from 1984–1992 and 1996–2008.
While his contributions to handball are undeniable, concerns have grown in recent years:
- At 81 years of age, Moustafa has become significantly less active.
- Many of his official responsibilities are now reportedly carried out by his team.
- There has been limited innovation or modernization during the latter part of his presidency.
For a sport that needs dynamic leadership and global outreach, many stakeholders believe the IHF now requires a new vision and stronger global engagement.
Gerd Butzeck: The Visionary Leader Handball Needs in 2025
A Respected Career Rooted in Handball
Born on 15 January 1959 in Solingen, Germany, Gerd Butzeck has lived handball in all forms—player, coach, and referee. At age 27, he became the youngest Bundesliga referee, marking him as an early standout in the sport.
Today, he is recognized as:
- One of the most experienced handball administrators globally
- A leader with deep insights from grassroots development to elite competition
- A strategic thinker with a modern understanding of sports governance
His campaign is built around the message “Handball Deserves More.” This vision reflects growth, modernization, transparency, and expansion.
Massive International Support: Europe, Africa, Asia, and Americans Behind Gerd
What makes Butzeck’s campaign even more significant is the broad global support he has garnered:
- Most of the nations all over the world are reportedly backing him for the impactful changes, as he has his excellent track record.
- Surprisingly strong positive feedback is emerging from Africa and Asia as well.
This indicates a global desire for fresh leadership—and a belief that Gerd Butzeck can bring global balance, fairness, and innovation.
A Global Strategy: Handball Must Expand Beyond Its Traditional Borders
Gerd Butzeck’s vision focuses on taking handball to untapped markets, especially nations with massive populations and growing sports cultures.
Target Regions for Handball Growth
- United States
- India
- China
- South Asian countries like Bangladesh, Nepal, Sri Lanka
His rationale is simple:
“If we want real growth, we need to build in the U.S., India, China, and beyond.”
This global approach stands in contrast to the current administration, which has largely focused on traditional handball regions.
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Supporting South Asia: A Special Vision for Nepal, India, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka & the Region
Ending Nepal Handball Association’s 10-Year Deadlock
Handball in Nepal has suffered from internal issues, including the fact that no election has been held since 2015, despite a 4-year constitutional mandate.
Gerd Butzeck has clearly stated:
- He wants the end of internal disputes.
- He plans to collaborate with the Nepal Handball Association.
- His model is teamwork: “Co-create long-term strategy, not dictate it.”
This is crucial for South Asian nations seeking recognition and structure.
Making Handball Accessible in South Asia
South Asia’s sports culture is dominated by cricket and football—but handball can grow rapidly with the right approach.
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| As winner of the 2001 World Games in beach handball together with Asian President Watanabe |
Gerd’s strategy includes:
- Urban Handball Projects requiring minimal infrastructure
- Simplified access and rules
- Youth-focused grassroots development
- Programs promoting values such as fairness, respect, and commitment
These values resonate deeply with South Asian communities.
“Handball Deserves More”: A Slogan Rooted in Action, Not Words
Gerd Butzeck’s overall program is built on four major pillars:
1. Modernization of Handball Governance
More transparency, accountability, and active leadership.
2. Global Expansion as a Priority
Heavy investment in Asia, Africa, and the Americas.
3. Professionalisation of the Sport
Better leagues, stronger refereeing systems, and more structured player pathways.
4. Creating Equal Opportunities
Smaller nations like Nepal, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka will get fairer treatment and more resources.
This vision reflects a strong commitment to making handball a truly global sport, not one dominated by a handful of nations.
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| With Andrej Lavrov, triple Olympic Champion |
Why Gerd Butzeck Is the Better Choice for IHF President
✔ Experienced in every level of handball
✔ Backed by the majority of European nations
✔ Widely accepted across Africa & Asia
✔ Focused on global expansion and modernization
✔ Plans to support countries like Nepal in resolving governance issues
✔ Understands the needs of emerging markets
✔ Young, energetic, and future-oriented compared to the 81-year-old incumbent
Handball stands at a crossroads. The sport needs a leader who understands its history but is not trapped by it—a leader ready to take bold steps.
A New Era for Global Handball Begins With Gerd Butzeck
As the IHF Congress in Cairo approaches, the world of handball is watching closely. The need for new leadership, global outreach, and modernization has never been stronger.
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| As delegate on final SWE-Russia of the EURO 2000 |
With his unparalleled experience, international backing, and forward-thinking vision, Gerd Butzeck stands out as the most promising leader to steer the International Handball Federation into a new era of growth.
If elected, he will bring transparency, innovation, and global unity—ensuring that handball reaches every corner of the world, including rising nations across South Asia.