2025 IPC Classification Code: Raising the Standards for Paralympic Sport
As of January 1, 2025, the 2025 IPC Classification Code and accompanying International Standards have officially come into effect for all IPC Members. However, International Federations governing sports in the Milano Cortina 2026 Paralympic Winter Games program will adopt the Code from July 1, 2026.
The implementation of the 2025 Classification Code marks the culmination of an extensive multi-year review process that began in early 2021. Through three consultation rounds, the IPC collaborated with stakeholders across the Paralympic Movement to refine and strengthen the classification framework, ensuring it remains inclusive, transparent, and fair for all Para athletes.
A New Era of Standardization and Flexibility
The 2025 IPC Classification Code builds upon the foundations set by the 2007 and 2015 editions, striving for greater standardization and harmonization in the classification process. It establishes best-in-class policies, procedures, and systems while also allowing sports the flexibility to address their unique requirements and capacities. This balance ensures that classification remains robust and consistent while fostering growth and development across all Para sports.
Key Enhancements in the 2025 Code
Among the most significant changes are revised stages in the classification process, including:
Verification of an underlying health condition – ensuring the presence of a relevant, eligible impairment.
Assessment of eligible impairments – defining whether an athlete’s impairment aligns with classification criteria.
Evaluation of minimum impairment criteria – determining the extent to which an impairment affects sport performance.
Sport class assessment – refining the assignment of sport classes for improved accuracy and fairness.
Strengthened provisions – enhancing classification protocols across all stages of the process.
These updates are designed to enhance clarity, consistency, and fairness, reinforcing the integrity of classification while upholding the principles of inclusion and accessibility.
New International Standards for Enhanced Governance
Accompanying the 2025 Classification Code are three newly developed International Standards, each playing a crucial role in strengthening classification governance:
International Standard for Classification Personnel and Training – ensuring high levels of expertise and professionalism in classification officials.
International Standard for Intentional Misrepresentation – implementing strict measures to prevent and address any attempts to manipulate the classification process.
International Standard for Classification Data Protection – safeguarding athlete data and ensuring compliance with privacy regulations.
Leadership Insight: A Collective Effort for a Stronger Future
Reflecting on the significance of these changes, Tea Cisic, IPC’s Director of Classification, emphasized the collaborative effort behind the 2025 Code:
“Following years of dedicated work alongside the Paralympic Movement, we are thrilled to release the final version of the 2025 IPC Classification Code and International Standards and begin the implementation process. This new Code represents a significant step forward, ensuring stronger and more transparent classification systems that ultimately benefit athletes.”
“We acknowledge that the transition to the new Code will take time, and we are committed to working closely with IPC Members over the coming months and years to support implementation and compliance.”
“We extend our sincere gratitude to all those involved in the review process, especially the Code Review Team. Their dedication and expertise have been instrumental in shaping these documents. We take great pride in this achievement and firmly believe that the 2025 Code will set a new benchmark for classification standards within the Paralympic Movement.”
Accessing the 2025 IPC Classification Code and Resources
The 2025 IPC Classification Code and International Standards are now available as part of the IPC Handbook. To support members with implementation, additional resources, guidelines, and summaries of the review process can be found on the IPC website under the Code compliance and Code review sections.
With the introduction of the 2025 Classification Code, the Paralympic Movement reaffirms its commitment to fair play, integrity, and athlete empowerment, ensuring a more inclusive and structured future for Para sport classification.