1 July 2026

ParalympicsGB publishes updated UK Classification Code

ParalympicsGB has today announced the publication of the updated 2026 UK Classification Code.

Classification is the cornerstone of Paralympic sport and determines which athletes are eligible to compete in a sport and how athletes are grouped together for competition.

The classification system of each sport is different, but the aim remains the same – to minimize the impact of an individual’s impairment on the outcome of competition.

Last updated in 2019, the publication of the updated 2026 UK Classification Code follows an extensive review, including consultation with the UK High Performance network, UK Sport, athletes, classifiers and ParalympicsGB’s Athletes’ Commission.

Eight-time equestrian Paralympic gold medallist and ParalympicsGB Board member, Sophie Christiansen CBE, who was a member of ParalympicsGB’s Athletes’ Commission for eight years, believes the new version represents another step forward in the support of Para athletes. She said:

“Fair and meaningful Para competition starts with a classification system that athletes trust. I’m really encouraged to see a stronger focus on athlete experience, wellbeing and transparency in this UK Classification Code. When athletes feel informed, respected and supported throughout the process and their athletic career, they can then focus on what matters most - the sport itself.”

"A significant step forward for Paralympic sport"

Key changes to the Code include:

A change of name from ‘UK Athlete Classification Code’ to ‘UK Classification Code’ to align with the International Paralympic Committee and reflect that the code is not solely for athletes.
The addition of a section on Safeguarding, Welfare & Inclusion, underlining ParalympicsGB’s commitment to creating and maintaining a safe and positive environment for all those involved in the classification process.
The introduction of Compliance Monitoring through the UK Classification Code Assurance Strategy and new guidelines on Data Protection.
A new section emphasising the importance of Classification Education.

Joshua Morgan, ParalympicsGB’s Athlete Services manager in charge of classification, said: “The 2026 UK Classification Code represents a significant step forward for Paralympic sport in the UK, providing a clear, robust and athlete‑centred framework that strengthens alignment with international standards while placing athlete welfare, education and integrity at the heart of classification.”

The Code outlines the rights and responsibilities for organisations, athletes, classifiers and all stakeholders that engage in classification activity and applies to all members of ParalympicsGB, including the National Governing Bodies of sports and their members, such as athletes. To compete internationally such as at a Paralympic Games, athletes must undertake international classification which is overseen by the IPC and its Classification Code and managed by sports’ International Federations.

You can read the full 2026 UK Classification Code here

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