How can a sport be included in the Olympic Games programme?

This is a wish shared by many sports enthusiasts, and the IOC appreciates this enthusiasm. As a result, it tries to make the programme of the Games evolve within the limits and rules established.

First of all, a sport must be governed by an International Federation  which undertakes to follow the rules of the Olympic Charter, a basic condition for recognition by the IOC. It must also be practised widely across the world and meet various criteria. After that, the IOC ‘s Executive Board may recommend that a recognised sport be added to the Games programme, if the IOC Session approves it.

Learn more:

• Chapter 5 of the Olympic Charter, Rule 45 and its Bye-law
• The IOC Commission for the Olympic Programme
• List of the International Sports Federations recognised by the IOC (see the "Contact Directory")
• Reference document on the Olympic programme evolution