IMMAF INTRODUCES REFUGEE TEAM FOR DISPLACED ATHLETES

IMMAF Introduces Refugee Team For Displaced Athletes

The International Mixed Martial Arts Federation (IMMAF) is proud to announce that refugee athletes will now be able to participate as neutral competitors in IMMAF Championships, as members of a recognised international team, upholding IMMAF’s commitment to inclusivity, fairness, and the development of mixed martial arts talent worldwide.

Refugee athletes, or those under Temporary Protection, who do not meet the criteria for representing an alternative country, will have the opportunity to compete under a neutral IMMAF flag and continue their athletic pursuits, akin to the international refugee team of the Olympic Games.

To maintain the competitive integrity and safety of IMMAF events, team applicants will be expected to meet the same standards of technical and competitive development as all other athletes. Refugee athletes who do not hold a current IMMAF rank must be nominated by the national IMMAF affiliate in the country where they have secured refugee status, to confirm appropriate readiness for competition. The first IMMAF event to welcome the refugee team will be the 2025 Youth World Championships, with registration open until June 20.

Athletes who are not officially refugees or under temporary protection, such as asylum seekers or migrants, cannot compete as neutral athletes. Migrants may remain eligible to compete for their new host nation, subject to confirmation of immigration status.

Like all other teams, a maximum of 2 refugee athletes can enter any single division. Selection will be determined by multiple factors, such IMMAF ranking and recent activity. Unranked athletes will be reviewed according to experience or participation in a national championships.

Refugees who have crossed continents, such as a refugee from Asia who is now based in Europe, may apply to represent the Refugee Team in IMMAF continental championships, choosing to participate in either the Asian Championships or European Championships. Approval for continental event selection may vary and depend on the circumstances of the athletes wishing to register. Refugees cannot participate in more than one continental championship within the competition year.

IMMAF Development Consultant Jorden Curran, who structured the refugee policy, will serve as the team director, supporting applicants and the organisation of refugee team members, including athletes and coaches. For further enquiries on the IMMAF Refugee Team, contact jorden.curran@immaf.org.