Martin Stiassny – EGF President 2009–2025

After 16 years of devoted leadership, Martin Stiassny retired as President of the European Go Federation on 1 January 2026. Since first taking office in 2009, Martin has been a tireless advocate for the game of Go, helping nurture and expand the European Go community in countless ways.

Martin has long been a central figure in European Go, both as an organizer and as a bridge between clubs, federations, and players across the continent. Beyond his many years with the EGF, he also served in leadership roles in national federations and helped foster international cooperation.

Under Martin’s guidance, the EGF has grown in visibility, structure, and activity.
Key achievements include:

• Pandanet Go European Team Championship, since 2010:

Our major annual team tournament has become a highlight of the European Go calendar and a model for other regional leagues.

• Establishment of European Professionals:

Under Martin’s leadership, the EGF strengthened competitive pathways for top players and helped to establish a European Professional system, recognized within the wider global Go community.

• Grand Slam:

Martin played a key role in launching the EGF Grand Slam series, offering substantial prize money and creating one of Europe’s most prestigious competitive circuits. The Grand Slam not only elevated the level of European Go but also attracted international attention, inspiring players across the continent to strive for excellence.

• Enhanced EGF Visibility and Collaboration:

Active engagement with sponsors, national federations, and international bodies helped elevate European Go events, expand networking among players, and encourage cultural exchange through Go.


Martin's dedication to Go has left a lasting mark—from fostering spirited competition to strengthening grassroots communities, from elevating European players on international stages to nurturing the joy of Go for players of all ages. His thoughtful leadership and passion have been widely respected throughout the Go world.

As we look forward to the next chapter for the EGF, we express heartfelt thanks to Martin Stiassny for his many years of service and leadership.

In the following video, you will find memories of European Go players.