World Bridge Federation

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

World Bridge Federation (WBF) is the governing body of world contract bridge. Under WBF jurisdiction are organizations of world championships, most important being Bermuda Bowl – open teams championships, Venice Cup – women team championships, and World Bridge Olympiads. Current president of WBF is José Damiani.

The World Bridge Federation (WBF) was formed in August 1958 by delegates from Europe, USA and South America. It is incorporated under the laws of Switzerland as a 'non-profit' organization.

WBF membership now comprises 103 National Contract Bridge Organizations (NBOs) with about 700,000 affiliated members who participate actively in competitive bridge events - locally, nationally and internationally. Most of the NBOs belong to one of the eight geographical zones, each of which has its own Zonal organization. Harold Stirling Vanderbilt was made the first honorary member of the WBF for his work developing the game.

Each National Contract Bridge Organization agrees to fulfil certain requirements, such as opening its ranks to all its citizens and residents and upholding a standard of ethics acceptable to the WBF.

The World Bridge Federation has a Congress to which each NBO is entitled to send one delegate. The Congress meets every second year, at Team Olympiads and at World Championships.

The WBF is administered by an Executive Council which is assisted by the various Committees and Consultants it appoints.