ISSF Rules

https://www.issf-sports.org/rules

SFC Advisory – ISSF Rule Changes and Domestic Implementation
The Shooting Federation of Canada (SFC) advises athletes, coaches, officials, and event organizers that the International Shooting Sport Federation (ISSF) has formally confirmed a series of rule changes that will be incorporated into the 2026 ISSF Rulebook, coming into force on 1 January 2026.

These changes follow a review of the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, consultation with the International Olympic Committee, and engagement with athletes, coaches, officials, broadcasters, and technical partners. The updates include:

  • New final formats for 10 Olympic shooting events, to be used at the LA 2028 Olympic Games, with eight athletes qualifying for all individual finals
  • Revised formats for mixed team finals, with all four qualified teams competing together
  • Adjustments aimed at reducing the duration of finals
  • The introduction of live aiming for Rifle and Pistol events
  • The introduction of VAR (Video Assistant Referee) for Shotgun events
  • Changes to rifle clothing regulations and stiffness tolerances

Several of these new formats were trialled at the 2025 ISSF World Cup Final as test events, and the ISSF has indicated that some elements may remain subject to further refinement based on recent experience.

Guidance for SFC Sanctioned Events and National Championships
SFC is currently working to better understand the ISSF’s expectations for the 2025–26 competitive season, particularly with respect to the appropriate transition from current rules to those set out in the 2026 ISSF Rulebook. At this time, there remain open questions regarding interpretation, enforcement, and timing of implementation at domestic and international levels.

As a result:

Domestic SFC-sanctioned events, including upcoming SFC National Championships, will continue to be conducted under the rules previously in place, unless otherwise specified by SFC.

This interim approach is intended to ensure consistency, fairness, and athlete preparedness during the transition period.

At a minimum, SFC intends to provide information and opportunities for athletes to test and trial new equipment, clothing, and formats at the upcoming National Championships, where feasible, to support athlete and coach understanding of the changes and to inform future planning.

Next Steps

SFC will continue to engage with the ISSF to clarify expectations for the coming competitive season and will provide updated guidance as additional information becomes available. Athletes, coaches, and officials are encouraged to remain informed and to consider these changes as part of their longer-term preparation for LA 2028 and beyond.

The 2026 ISSF Rulebook is available through the ISSF and should be considered the authoritative source for rules effective from 1 January 2026.

Further SFC advisories will be issued as required.