UIPM Judges Certification Programme prepares officials for Youth World Championships in Barcelona (ESP)

A new generation of Modern Pentathlon judges has strengthened its technical expertise through the UIPM Judges Certification Programme (JCP) in Barcelona (ESP), ahead of the UIPM 2026 Pentathlon U19 and Tetrathlon U15 World Championships.

The course provided certification opportunities across Levels 1, 2 and 3 of the JCP, helping to prepare officials for one of the most important youth competitions on the UIPM calendar while supporting the continued development of technical officiating in Spain.

A total of 29 students took part in the programme, including 21 men and eight women. Participants completed an online theory module from May 23 to June 12 before attending on-site theory and practical sessions in Barcelona from June 18-22.

The course was delivered by experienced UIPM Educator and Technical Committee Member Agnes Kulcsar (HUN), who guided participants through the technical knowledge and practical skills required to officiate Modern Pentathlon competitions to international standards.

The JCP plays a vital role in developing qualified technical officials, ensuring competitions are delivered fairly, consistently and in line with the sport's evolving regulations.

Kulcsar praised the participants for their commitment throughout the programme.

"It was a pleasure to work with such an engaged and motivated group of officials," she said. "Preparing judges for major youth competitions is especially rewarding because these events help shape the future of our sport. The participants showed a genuine desire to learn and develop, and I am confident they will make a valuable contribution to competitions in Spain and beyond."

Carlos Jimenez del Castillo, President of the Spanish Modern Pentathlon Federation, welcomed the successful completion of the course.

"Hosting the combined UIPM U19 and U15 World Championships is a great opportunity for Spain, and it is equally important that we continue investing in the education of our technical officials," he said. "We thank UIPM and Agnes Kulcsar for delivering this programme and helping to strengthen our judging community."

With their new knowledge and practical experience, the participants are now better equipped to support the delivery of national and international Modern Pentathlon competitions.