International Shooting Sport Federation

The International Shooting Sport Federation (ISSF) governs Olympic and non-Olympic shooting events globally, overseeing competitions, regulations, and development across various shooting disciplines.

sport

Shooting

Founded

1907 (117 years ago)

Headquarters

Munich, Germany

Affiliations

International Olympic Committee

Summary

The International Shooting Sport Federation (ISSF) is the global governing body for shooting sports, including both Olympic and non-Olympic events. It was established in 1907 under the name "International Shooting Union" and later changed to ISSF in 1998. The ISSF’s headquarters are located in Munich, Germany. Its current president is Luciano Rossi, who took over in 2022, succeeding Vladimir Lisin. The ISSF has over 150 member federations, representing nations from all around the world.

The ISSF is responsible for overseeing Olympic shooting events, managing the qualification process, and organising major international competitions such as the World Cup, World Championships, and Junior World Cup. The Olympic programme includes events for both men and women in three major categories: rifle, pistol, and shotgun, with competitors shooting at targets from various distances. These events are divided into 15 categories – nine for men and six for women.

Shooting has been part of the Olympic Games since the first modern edition in 1896. Over time, the sport has evolved significantly, expanding its number of events from three to 15, driven by advances in firearms technology and the enthusiasm of shooters worldwide.

The ISSF also regulates several non-Olympic shooting sports, such as Running Target and Target Sprint. Additionally, the Federation is involved in fostering the development of shooting sports globally, including supporting member federations through a development fund that provides financial assistance to promote shooting in their countries. It has also adopted new digital initiatives, like virtual reality and Esports, to engage the younger generation.

One of the most notable milestones in ISSF history was the inclusion of women’s events in the 1968 Olympic Games, and the organisation continues to promote gender equality in the sport. Notably, in 1992, Zhang Shan of China became the first woman to win an Olympic gold in a mixed-gender shooting event, an achievement that remains significant in Olympic history.

The ISSF maintains a close relationship with the International Olympic Committee (IOC) and governs the rules and regulations that apply to shooting events worldwide. It continues to play a major role in both the promotion and regulation of shooting sports at all levels.

Disciplines

The International Shooting Sport Federation (ISSF) oversees several shooting disciplines, each with its own unique set of rules and equipment. These disciplines are divided into five main categories: Pistol, Rifle, Shotgun, Running Target, and Target Sprint. Each discipline includes both Olympic and non-Olympic events.

Pistol: Pistol events involve shooting at static targets using either cartridges or air pistols. The events are typically timed, with competitors shooting at targets from distances of 10 metres, 25 metres, and 50 metres. Olympic pistol events include the 10m Air Pistol for men and women, the 25m Pistol for women, and the 25m Rapid Fire Pistol for men.
Rifle: Rifle events also involve shooting at static targets but use air rifles or small-bore cartridge rifles. Competitors shoot from distances of 10 metres and 50 metres, with some events requiring different shooting positions, such as kneeling, prone, and standing. Olympic rifle events include the 10m Air Rifle and the 50m Three-Position Rifle for both men and women.
Shotgun: Shotgun events require competitors to shoot at moving clay targets that are launched into the air at different angles. The two main Olympic events in this discipline are Trap and Skeet, both for men and women. Non-Olympic events include Double Trap, where competitors shoot at two clay targets simultaneously.
Running Target: Running Target events involve shooting at moving targets using either air rifles or cartridge rifles. Competitors shoot from a fixed position while the targets move across the range. This discipline does not feature in the Olympic Games but is contested in other international competitions.
Target Sprint: Target Sprint combines running with shooting. Competitors run a set distance, stopping to shoot at targets with air rifles at specific intervals. The focus is on both speed and accuracy, as athletes alternate between running and shooting. Target Sprint is not included in the Olympic Games.

Membership

The International Shooting Sport Federation (ISSF) has a broad and diverse membership structure, which plays a crucial role in the development and regulation of shooting sports globally. Here is an overview of its membership:

Membership Structure:

National Federations: The ISSF has more than 150 member federations from various countries and regions. These federations represent their respective countries in all matters related to shooting sports, ensuring the promotion and organisation of the sport at a national level.
Affiliated Members: In addition to national federations, the ISSF recognises other shooting-related organisations as affiliated members. These affiliated members may participate in various ISSF activities and contribute to the overall development of shooting sports.

Role of Member Federations:

Representation: Member federations represent their countries in the ISSF Congress and participate in decision-making processes. They contribute to shaping the rules, policies, and direction of the ISSF.
Participation: Member federations are responsible for sending their athletes to ISSF-sanctioned events, such as the Olympic Games, World Cups, and World Championships. They also ensure that their athletes meet the eligibility requirements set by the ISSF.

Benefits of Membership:

Access to Competitions: Member federations have the opportunity to send their athletes to international competitions, including Olympic qualification events, the World Cup, and the World Championships. This provides athletes with a platform to compete at the highest level.
Development Support: The ISSF offers development programmes to assist member federations, especially those from developing nations. This includes financial assistance through the ISSF Development Fund and support for training programmes, coaching, and equipment.
Voting Rights: At the ISSF Congress, each member federation has voting rights. These votes are crucial in electing the ISSF President, Executive Committee, and other leadership positions, as well as in making important policy decisions.

Responsibilities of Members:

Adherence to ISSF Rules: Member federations must follow ISSF rules and regulations in organising shooting events in their countries. They are responsible for ensuring that their athletes, coaches, and officials comply with international standards.
Promotion of Shooting Sports: Member federations play an important role in promoting shooting sports within their countries by organising national competitions and grassroots initiatives to develop young talent.

References