The IBU is pleased to announce the opening of applications for the 2026 edition of the IBU Awards. The awards recognize outstanding contributions within the biathlon community in the categories of Sustainability, Gender Equality, Social Media and the newly added category Biathlon for All (B4A). They highlight best practices that support the achievement of the IBU’s strategic objectives under Target 2030 and promote sustainable development within the sport.

The applications are now open and will close on 30 June 2026. The official award winner presentation will take place at the IBU Congress in Berchtesgaden in September 2026.

Please submit your applications based on below guidance:

SUSTAINABILITY

For Sustainability, the sport of biathlon has set ambitious objectives in the IBU Sustainability Strategy 2020-2030 that require that sustainability becomes a core part of the execution and management of the IBU´s operations on all levels. Concrete examples of effective sustainable practices and climate action will fast-track the implementation of successful programs.

Two awards will be presented, one for the National Federations (NFs) and the other for the IBU Organising Committees (OCs).

Organizing Committees can apply here.

National Federations can apply via IBU Scope.

GENDER EQUALITY

Concerning Gender Equality, continued national efforts in implementing programs, projects and activities are required to realize the goals of the IBU Gender Equality Strategy 2021-2026, especially in the areas of governance, sport and portrayal. Examples of tried and tested actions and initiatives will ensure that all NFs benefit from the lessons learned by the others.

National Federations can apply via IBU Scope.

SOCIAL MEDIA

Concerning Social Media, applying time, resources and creativity to digital content is a must by IBU stakeholders for the sport to reach its 2030 objectives related to growing the global fanbase. Highlighting creative pieces of success and relevant implementation to the rest of the Biathlon Family will inspire and encourage greater efforts in a field that is ever more important for widening biathlon’s global reach.

IBU Athletes can apply here.

National Federations can apply via IBU Scope.

BIATHLON FOR ALL (B4A)

Concerning Biathlon for All (B4A), continued efforts are required to support National Federations in developing and implementing initiatives that promote accessibility, inclusion, and grassroots participation in both biathlon and para biathlon. An annual award recognising outstanding and impactful B4A actions - such as events or series of events - will encourage innovation and the sharing of best practices, ensuring that all NFs benefit from successful approaches to recruitment and engagement.

National Federations can apply via IBU Scope.

PRIZE MONEY

Sustainability

Organising Committees: 10,000 EUR

National Federations: 10,000 EUR

Gender Equality

National Federations: 10,000 EUR

Social Media

Athletes: 5,000 EUR

National Federations: 10,000 EUR

Biathlon for All (B4A)

National Federations: 10,000 EUR

Application period: 1 April – 30 June 2026

Photo: Adobe Stock