THE INTERNATIONAL BILLIARDS PROMOTION FOUNDATION (IBP) is embarking on an exciting new chapter following a landmark sponsorship agreement with Predator last summer.
After several EPBF and IBP board meetings, it was determined that Gre Leenders step down from his role as Secretary Treasurer of the IBP at the end of 2024. Leenders will remain President of the EPBF as elected but will have no further role in the company.
IBP President David Morris, who agreed the Predator partnership, will assume full control of the IBP moving forward.
Morris, one of the founders of the original commercial arm for the EPBF in 1995, expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “Our partnership with Predator is a game-changer for the European Pocket Billiard Federation. It marks the largest sponsorship deal in the EPBF’s history, and together with our long-term partners Iwan Simonis and Saluc, ensures the financial stability needed to operate with enhanced professionalism.
“The increased funding will directly support our events, and for the first time, the EPBF’s years of dedication will be properly recognized and rewarded.”
Morris continued, “The IBP was built to support and help the EPBF, and with new opportunities opening up for our current partners, we can fully realize that goal. I am committed to using this new sponsorship income to elevate EPBF events to new heights.
“I thank those EPBF board members who provided insight into the changes needed to achieve this vision. Miracles don’t happen overnight, but step by step, this new chapter promises to drive growth and boost professionalism across the sport, ultimately benefiting EPBF members, organizers, players, and fans alike.”
The 2025 event calendar is published on the EPBF website, with the 2025 Predator EuroTour season starting in Treviso, Italy, on February 6. The European Championships for men, women, U23s, and wheelchair players will be held in Tallinn, Estonia, from March 29 to April 8, followed by the second EuroTour stop from April 10 to 13.