European Aquatics publishes Information Bulletin for Para and Special Olympics athletes ahead of Masters Championships 2026

European Aquatics has officially published the Information Bulletin for Para and Special Olympics athletes for the European Aquatics Masters Championships 2026, marking a historic step forward in the development of inclusive aquatics.

The document, now available online here, outlines key participation criteria, competition formats and operational details for athletes with disabilities who will take part in the Championships, to be held from 18 to 30 August 2026 across Šamorín, Bratislava and Graz.

For the first time in the history of the event, Para athletes and Special Olympics participants will be fully integrated into the Masters Championships programme, competing alongside athletes from across Europe and beyond. This milestone reflects European Aquatics’ commitment to creating an inclusive environment where all athletes have the opportunity to participate, perform and belong.

The bulletin introduces a Full Inclusion Model, ensuring equal competition conditions, integrated services and accessible infrastructure across all venues. Para Swimming and Para Open Water Swimming will be included, with participation open through National Federations and recognised disability sport organisations, following standard registration procedures and classification requirements.

In addition, Special Olympics athletes will compete within the official Championships programme on dedicated competition days, with adapted events integrated into the overall schedule.

Para Water Polo included with adapted rules

Para Water Polo will also feature in the European Aquatics Masters Championships 2026 as part of the inclusion model, with the programme currently under development and further details to be confirmed in future updates.

To ensure athlete safety and fair competition, a number of specific rule adaptations have been introduced.

A classification points system will play a central role, limiting the total number of classification points for players in the water at any given time, thereby balancing teams with athletes of different abilities.

Team composition rules have also been adjusted, allowing squads of up to 15 players, including a maximum of 13 field players. Additional flexibility is provided through the possibility of including a personal assistant on the bench to support athletes entering and exiting the water.

Several gameplay adaptations have been implemented to reflect the needs of Para athletes, including:

• Shorter periods of play (7 minutes instead of 8)
• Extended possession time (45 seconds)
• Longer timeouts (90 seconds)
• Adjusted substitution procedures
• The possibility to use two hands when passing or shooting

Operational changes also include an additional official at the table to monitor classification points, as well as flexible field-of-play dimensions and standardised ball specifications for all matches.

These adaptations aim to maintain the integrity and excitement of water polo while ensuring accessibility, safety and competitive balance for all participants.

Check the rules in details here.

A milestone for inclusive aquatics

The publication of this Information Bulletin represents a major milestone in European Aquatics’ long-term vision to expand participation and accessibility within the sport.

Further technical details, including Para Water Polo schedule, classification and additional operational information, will be communicated in upcoming updates.

Athletes, teams and stakeholders are encouraged to consult the full bulletin and regularly visit official channels for the latest information.

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