European Aquatics is the continental governing body for aquatic sports in Europe, affiliated with World Aquatics, and comprises 52 national swimming federations. Organized in 1927, its mission is to oversee and promote five key disciplines: swimming, diving, artistic swimming, water polo, and open water swimming

Open Water Swimming is a rapidly growing discipline and is recognized for its high level of global competitiveness, with European athletes securing 23 out of 30 Olympic 10km medals since 2008. Elite standards are showcased at the European Aquatics Championships, the most prestigious continental event, where nations like Italy and Germany dominate the medal tables.