Learn about all aspects of the classification process across Para Alpine, Para Cross-Country and Para Snowboard in a dedicated series of six articles published ahead of the 2025-2026 season, culminating in the Paralympic Winter Games in Milano-Cortina. 

Underlining its commitment to the evolution of Para Snow Sports, FIS has invested in a series of research initiatives and strategic partnerships with leading academic institutions across all three disciplines. 

Presented to the FIS Para Snow Sports Committee meeting in Vilamoura (POR) in May 2025, the progress of the classification research is the focus of this first editorial. 

University of Queensland study aims to develop evidence-informed classification   

Classification is the system used to assess which athletes are eligible to compete in Para sports and how they are grouped together for competition, based on how their impairment affects their ability to perform in a specific sport. It is a fundamental component of Para Snow Sports and FIS is committed to ensuring its systems are as strong as possible to guarantee fair competition for all athletes. 

In 2023, FIS conducted comprehensive stakeholder consultation on classification and received nearly 200 submissions from athletes, coaches, classifiers and administrators. 

FIS then undertook a collaboration with researchers from the University of Queensland (AUS) to assist with the development of a program of research that would lead to practical, actionable outcomes for Para Snow Sports. 

Following a review of the stakeholder input, a desktop review of the classification systems and an in-person review of processes, Minimum Impairment Criteria (MIC) was identified as a key research opportunity.  

MIC refers to the minimum level of impairment an athlete must have to be eligible to compete in Para sports. It plays a critical role in protecting the integrity of competition. 

The MIC will be refined through a Delphi Study where expert opinions are gathered with the intention of reaching consensus. 

The study aims to develop evidence-informed criteria that is scientifically grounded, sport specific and aligned with International Paralympic Committee (IPC) standards. Completion is expected by May 2026, with proposed rule changes targeted for FIS Council approval in 2027.  

Professor Sean Tweedy and Associate Professor Emma Beckman of the University of Queensland are leading the project.