By Polish Weightlifting Federation
The European weightlifting community is turning its eyes to Poland. On Saturday, August 29, 2026, the historic city of Gdańsk will host the 31st International Waldemar Malak Memorial. Organized by MKS Atleta Gdańsk and the Polish Weightlifting Federation (PZPC), this prestigious tournament honors the legacy of Waldemar Malak, the 1992 Barcelona Olympic bronze medalist.
As an established highlight on the European Weightlifting Federation events calendar, this year’s edition promises exceptional sporting drama, substantial financial rewards, and a perfect opportunity to explore one of Europe’s most beautiful coastal regions.
️️A Unique Atmosphere Formed by Champions
The Malak Memorial is renowned for its electric atmosphere. The event routinely gathers top continental heavyweights to lift in front of a passionate, packed crowd. Last year’s event drew prominent EWF officials, including President Astrit Hasani and General Secretary Milan Mihajlović, highlighting the event’s significance in the European weightlifting landscape. The intimate setting of the Atleta venue bridges the gap between the platform and the fans, creating an intense, motivating environment where heavy iron and new records are bound to fly.
High Stakes and Full Premium Hospitality
Beyond continental prestige, athletes will be competing for a highly lucrative prize pool. Continuing its tradition of major financial incentives, the 31st edition features an overall prize fund of €10,000, with the tournament champion walking away with €3,000.
To fully support the competing elite, the organizers are offering free accommodation and full board (meals) for all official participants. This premium hospitality ensures that lifters can focus entirely on their preparation, recovery, and peak performance without any administrative stress.
Discover Tricity: Sport Meets Summer Tourism
For traveling delegations, athletes, and fans, the timing and location offer the ultimate late-summer getaway. The tournament takes place in Poland’s Tricity region—a seamless urban area combining three completely distinct cities, all easily accessible by local trains:
- Gdańsk: Step straight into history. Take a stroll down the famous Long Market (Długi Targ), admire the iconic medieval Crane (Żuraw), and explore the breathtaking streets lined with red-brick Hanseatic architecture.
- Sopot: Located just minutes away, it is the lifestyle hub of the Baltic. Walk down the longest wooden pier in Europe, relax on wide sandy beaches, and experience its vibrant culinary scene.
- Gdynia: A modernist gem for maritime lovers, featuring historic museum ships docked at the pier, an aquarium, and scenic cliffside walking trails in Orłowo.
Action Required: Registration Deadline Approaching!
Due to the invitational nature of the event and the comprehensive hospitality packages provided, spots on the platform are strictly limited.
- Final Registration Deadline: May 31, 2026
- Event Date: August 29, 2026
- Venue: MKS Atleta Gdańsk (Opolska 6, Gdańsk-Oliwa)
National federations and invited athletes must submit their final entries before May 31, 2026, to secure their participation, complimentary stay, and meals. For registration forms and official regulations, please visit the Polish Weightlifting Federation official website or contact the organizing committee directly.
