“Strengthening Soft Armored Fighting in Europe – together.”
Who are we ?
The SAFE Federation (SAFEF) is the European governing body for the discipline of Soft Armored Fighting (SAF) within the medieval combat-sport. Founded in June 2022, with headquarters in France, SAFEF builds on the legacy of previous organisations and unites national federations across Europe to develop SAF as a safe, inclusive and recognised combat sport.
SAFEF’s mission is to create a coordinated continental network, deliver common rules, develop youth pathways, and ensure highest standards of integrity, safety and fair play.
Our Mission & Values:
MISSION: To empower athletes, federations and clubs by providing a transparent, trusted and sustainable framework for Soft Armored Fighting across Europe.
VALUES:
- Integrity & Fair Play – We uphold ethical conduct in training, competition and governance.
- Safety – We ensure the highest standards of equipment, rules and supervision so that participation is accessible for all ages.
- Inclusion – We welcome all genders, ages and abilities, striving for diversity and equal opportunity.
- Development – We promote youth participation, coach/referee education and cross-national learning.
- Sustainability – We foster environmentally and socially responsible events, clubs and practices.
Our Tasks:
SAFEF’s core functions include:
- Defining, publishing and updating the official rules and regulations for SAF competitions (duel, team, various weapons/disciplines).
- Accrediting national member federations and developing a pathway from grassroots to international competition.
- Organising the SAF European Championship and sanctioning other major continental events.
- Promoting youth categories and ensuring safe-sport policies, safeguarding of minors, anti-doping and good governance frameworks.
- Facilitating international cooperation and exchange of best practice across European federations.
Structure & Governance:
SAFEF is managed by an Executive Committee elected by the General Assembly of full member federations. The committee oversees operational units such as Competition, Education & Development, Integrity & Ethics, and Marketing & Communications.
Full details are published in the Constitution and Bylaws (see Documents).
Headquarters: France
Year founded: 2022