UK Athletics has updated the information for competitions in the new Rule Book, which comes into effect today. These decisions for the Rules of Competition follow a consultation period conducted by the UKA Board in December, after the Rules Group made a series of new recommendations.

A key area of change relates to age groups. These have been revised from odd-numbered to even-numbered categories, following the work of the Age Group Change Implementation Task Group, who have worked closely with the Rules Group. The updated age‑group rules are now presented in a format consistent with the rest of the Rule Book.

The new Rule Book also includes the inaugural tracking table at the start of each of the three main sections, outlining changes arising from updates to the World Athletics Rules and amendments to the UKA supplements.

Commenting on the changes coming into effect, Mark Granby, Chair of the Rules Advisory Group, said:

“On behalf of the Rules Group, I would like to thank everyone who has contributed to the updates in this latest version of the Rules of Competition. As well as the usual consultative groups who have provided feedback on the proposed changes, this version includes significant updates resulting from the age‑group revisions. The Rules Group has benefitted from close liaison with the Age Group Change Implementation Task Group, and in particular James Williams and Dean Hardman, in finalising the rules relating to young athletes, and I am very grateful for their support.”

The new rule book can be found here: UKA Rules for Competition 2026 Rule book.

More information on all UKA Rules for Competitions can be found on the UKA Website.