Announcement
Para Badminton Classification Regulations Review
New IPC Classification Code & Model Rules
In May 2024, the IPC approved its new Classification Code and communicated to International Federations, including the BWF, the process and timeline by which each International Federation must ensure its compliance with the standards outlined in the new code.
Following that, in March 2025, the IPC issued ‘Model Rules’ based on the newly published 2025 Classification Code. The Model Rules allow the BWF to stay consistent with the 2025 Classification Code as it integrates it in its own Para Badminton Classification Regulations (PBCR).
Minimum Impairment Criteria
A review of the minimum impairment criteria for all sport classes, including Standing Upper 5 (SU 5) was conducted in 2021/22 by the BWF Classification Expert Group. At that time, a consultation phase with Member Associations and National Paralympic Committees was conducted, and following feedback received, a decision was taken to postpone proposed amendments to the Minimum Impairment Criteria due to the proximity to the Paralympic Games Qualification Period.
The Classifier Expert Group has further reviewed and revised the original proposal and has recommended that the following amendments to the Minimum Impairment Criteria, and in particular Impaired Passive Range of Movement (PROM) for the Standing Upper 5 (SU 5) Sport Class be considered.
Documents
The Para Badminton Classification Regulations is the main document. It includes both the provisions from the 2025 Classification Code and the changes to the Minimum Impairment Criteria for SU 5.
To assist Members to understand the changes that are being proposed, the BWF has produced a guide. This guide highlights the timelines, formulation stages of the regulations, groups involved, summary of changes based on the IPC 2025 Classification Code and model rules, and the minimum impairment criteria (SU5).
Members are encouraged to share and read through the documents to ensure understanding of the new proposed regulations.
Consultation Period
BWF Member Associations, National Paralympic Committees and recognised Para Badminton Organisations have until 27 June 2025 to submit their comments and questions in relation to the proposed new BWF Para Badminton Classification Regulations.
Please note that only comments and questions submitted by BWF Member Associations, National Paralympic Committees and recognised Para Badminton Organisations will be accepted and responded to. Individual comments and questions from athletes, coaches, team managers will not be accepted and should be channelled through the above-mentioned organisations.
Please send comments and questions to Thomas Delaye, BWF Head of Legal and Governance ([email protected]).
