The Insular Federation of Traditional Sailing of Lanzarote issued a second press release on Thursday, signed by its president, Juan Pérez. This follows an earlier announcement that sparked controversy with the Arrecife City Council, particularly after a strong response from the Sports Department led by Eli Merino. Initially, the Federation had abruptly announced the suspension of all nautical activities, blaming the government headed by the Popular Party’s Yonathan de León. Now, they not only apologise but also offer to collaborate with the local institution. This turnaround comes after the municipal government accused the Federation of submitting false documentation to justify the €25,000 they received in 2023.

Full Statement from the Federation

Following the press release issued by the Insular Federation of Traditional Sailing of Lanzarote, which announced the suspension of its activities and scheduled regattas due in part to a lack of financial support and the need to repay part of a received grant, the federative body wishes to clarify several points and extend an apology to the Arrecife City Council for the statements made.

The president of the Insular Federation of Traditional Sailing of Lanzarote, Juan Pérez, asserts that “we are ordinary citizens who, altruistically, have taken on the responsibility of advancing the Insular Federation of Traditional Sailing of Lanzarote.” He emphasises that “our sole objective is to improve, ensure transparency, and protect this traditional sport.” Pérez also notes that “it is a fact that the previous Board of Directors received the support and submitted the corresponding justification, which included issues that were subject to requests for clarification but were not duly addressed.”

The message disseminated yesterday announcing the suspension of all activities was issued in a climate of frustration and concern due to the liquidity issues arising from the administrative situation of the 2023 grant, and we acknowledge that this was not the most appropriate course of action.

The Board of Directors wishes to make clear that we will work with the Arrecife City Council as soon as possible to review the file, clarify the issues, and ensure transparency. At the same time, we request aid, understanding, and active collaboration from the Arrecife City Council in the realm of subsidies, so we can resolve this issue, address the existing debt, and ensure the continuity of the federative activities.

The Insular Federation of Traditional Sailing of Lanzarote publicly apologises to the Arrecife City Council and all parties involved for the statement announcing the suspension of the regattas.

Our commitment is firm; the regattas will return sooner than we think. We will continue to advocate for traditional sailing as a cultural heritage sport of Lanzarote and the Canary Islands. We call upon athletes, clubs, and fans for their support and understanding during this renewal process, trusting that together we will overcome this challenge.