European Aquatics strengthens inclusive vision with Para Aquatics integration at Masters Championships 2026

European Aquatics has taken a significant step forward in its commitment to inclusive sport with the publication of participation criteria for Para Swimming and Para Open Water Swimming at the European Aquatics Masters Championships 2026, also extending participation for Para Asian aquatic sports athletes.

The move marks a landmark moment in the continued integration of Para Aquatics sports within the European Aquatics corporate and event portfolio, opening the door for greater visibility, broader participation, and stronger alignment between mainstream and disability sport structures across the continent.

At the heart of the initiative is a clear ambition to create meaningful competitive opportunities for athletes with disabilities while maintaining high technical standards and fair competition principles.

Alongside the announced Para Swimming and Para Open Water Swimming criteria, Para Water Polo and Para Artistic Swimming events are also included at the Championships.

The inclusion of Para aquatics sports within the Masters Championships reflects a progressive participation model designed to encourage wide representation from across Europe. Para swimmers will be able to compete within the broader Masters framework, reinforcing the message that aquatic sport is for all.

European Aquatics has underlined that the programme is open to athletes entered not only by national federations, but also by recognised disability sport organisations, including those outside its traditional membership structure, provided they are affiliated with or recognised by the International Paralympic Committee.

In a bid to maximise accessibility, Para swimmers will not be required to meet qualifying times to enter. Instead, athletes must submit a valid entry time achieved in official competition between 15 July 2024 and 15 July 2026, supported by verifiable results.

All registrations will follow the standard Masters entry process via the official event platform, with a final deadline of 15 July 2026.

To ensure fairness and integrity, all athletes must meet established classification requirements. Competitors in classes S1 to S14 must hold a recognised sport class within the World Para Swimming system, with national classifications accepted for entry.

For additional classes, such as S15 (deaf), S16 (autism), and S21 (down syndrome), athletes will be required to submit detailed medical documentation confirming their eligibility. Final validation will rest with the event classification panel, ensuring consistency across all entries.

Competition results will be determined using a points-based system, allowing performances across different sport classes to be compared fairly.

Athletes in classes S1–S14 will be ranked using the World Para Swimming Points System

Classes S15, S16, and S21 will compete under the World Aquatics Points System

This approach ensures a level playing field while preserving the competitive integrity of the event.

By actively building bridges between disciplines and championing inclusive participation, European Aquatics continues to shape a more unified and accessible future for aquatic sport in Europe.

Further updates and technical details will be communicated through official European Aquatics channels as preparations for the 2026 Championships continue.

The criteria can be found below.

Stephen Stanley for European Aquatics

The post European Aquatics strengthens inclusive vision with Para Aquatics integration at Masters Championships 2026 first appeared on European Aquatics®.