2025 IPC Classification Code and International Standards implementation begins

Since 1 January 2025, the 2025 IPC Classification Code and International Standards became effective for all IPC Members, with the exception that for International Federations governing sports on the Milano Cortina 2026 Paralympic Winter Games sport programme, it will come into force on 1 July 2026.

The implementation of the 2025 IPC Classification Code follows a multi-year review which started in early 2021 with three consultation rounds.

This new Classification Code aims to ensure standardisation and harmonisation within the Paralympic Movement. Building on the 2007 and 2015 editions of the Classification Code, the 2025 version provides the highest standards for classification systems, policies, and procedures. This is done in parallel with balancing out the standardisation aspect with flexibility to allow Para sports to cater for their specific needs and capacities, thereby enabling growth and development. 

Among some of the changes are revised stages of the classification process, including:

・ the verification of an underlying health condition 

・ eligible impairment assessment 

・ minimum impairment criteria assessment 

・ sport class assessment 

・ updated and strengthened provisions across all aspects of the classification process 

Accompanying the 2025 Classification Code are three new International Standards. They include the International Standard for Classification Personnel and Training, International Standard for Intentional Misrepresentation, and International Standard for Classification Data Protection.

Tea Cisic, the IPC’s Director of Classification, said: “Following several years of work with the Paralympic Movement, we are delighted to publish the final version of the 2025 IPC Classification Code and International Standards and commence with the implementation activities The new Code will improve classification systems and processes across the Paralympic Movement and ensure better classification for athletes.

“Implementation of, and compliance with, the new Code will take time, and we will work closely with IPC Members over the coming months and years to achieve this.

“We wish to take this opportunity to thank everyone involved in the Code review process, especially members of the Code Review Team. We take great pride in the final product and strongly believe that these documents will support the Paralympic Movement in delivering the highest standard of classification for years to come.”

The 2025 IPC Classification Code and International Standards can be found as part of the IPC Handbook. For resources to support Code implementation, and a summary of the review process, please see the respective Code compliance and Code review pages on the IPC website.