UIPM Member Candidate Status

Purpose. This FAQ explains the transition framework for National Federations that became UIPM Member Candidates following the dissolution of FISO. It is intended to support clear, consistent communication.

What is a UIPM Member Candidate?

A UIPM Member Candidate is a National Federation that was affiliated with FISO and listed as a Member Candidate in the FISO Congress Book 2026. It entered the UIPM integration framework following the dissolution of FISO. The status provides continuity for the Obstacle community while national integration arrangements are discussed and developed. The transition period runs until 31 December 2027.

Can a Member Candidate continue to operate as an Obstacle National Federation?

The integration principles provide for UIPM Member Candidates to retain their existing structures and to continue operating and leading Obstacle Sports throughout the transition period. The process is based on cooperation and good faith dialogue. This continuity does not remove the need to comply with applicable law, safety requirements, UIPM regulations for sanctioned activity, or the requirements that apply to a specific event or programme.

What happens where an Obstacle and a Pentathlon federation both exist?

National integration is considered case by case, reflecting the status and recognition of the bodies involved. The following scenarios provide a common framework. In every case, national bodies should lead constructive, good faith dialogue, with UIPM available to support and facilitate the process where helpful.

Can a Member Candidate enter or select athletes for UIPM sanctioned Obstacle events?

UIPM Member Candidates may enter and select athletes for UIPM sanctioned Obstacle events in accordance with the regulations and entry procedures for the event concerned. In countries where both an Obstacle and a Pentathlon National Federation operate, UIPM actively encourages constructive dialogue towards a coordinated national approach to selection, including, where appropriate, the nomination of a single national team. Any arrangements must respect the applicable event rules, deadlines and national processes.

Are existing coach, judge and technical official qualifications recognised?

The agreed framework provides for FISO recognized certifications to transfer into the UIPM structure without reduction in standing or qualification level, through an equivalency framework. The terms of the equivalency process will be published in November 2026 and communicated directly to coaches and judges. UIPM hosted courses for new coach and judge certifications are scheduled to begin in 2027, with further details communicated separately. Member Candidates will continue to be able to offer training opportunities to their coaches and technical officials via UIPM.

Will Member Candidates be included in the UIPM 2026 Congress process?

As FISO held its Congress earlier in 2026, UIPM Member Candidates will be invited to a dedicated follow-up session after the 2026 UIPM Congress. The UIPM President, Secretary General and representatives of the UIPM Obstacle Commission will share relevant Congress outcomes and transition updates, and participants will have the opportunity to ask questions. The invitation and practical arrangements will be communicated through official UIPM channels 30 days in advance.

How will Member Candidates be kept informed of relevant developments and updates?

UIPM and the Obstacle Commission will seek to keep UIPM Member Candidates closely informed throughout the transition. Updates will cover relevant integration developments, key timelines and matters affecting Obstacle activities. Member Candidates are encouraged to remain in contact with UIPM at cristobal.rodriguez@pentathlon.org, for questions or country specific matters.

Who can clarify a country specific question?

Member Candidates are encouraged to contact UIPM at cristobal.rodriguez@pentathlon.org, setting out the country, the issue, any relevant deadline and the practical question to be addressed. UIPM can help clarify the applicable framework and, where helpful, facilitate dialogue between the relevant national bodies. This approach supports a constructive and coordinated process while respecting the applicable statutes, regulations, event rules and national processes.

Further information

The current public overview of the integration is available on the UIPM website. This FAQ should be read alongside official UIPM Statutes, Rules and Regulations, event invitations and direct UIPM communications, which take precedence if there is any difference.