UK Athletics can confirm an amendment to age groups as part of the Rule Change Proposals for the 2024 – 2026 Rule Book has been approved at a recent UKA Board meeting.

The Home Country Athletics Federations (HCAF) proposal to revise the current age groups of U13, U15, U17 to new age groups of U12, U14, U16 and U18 was approved.  

The HCAF proposal was formed following consultation carried out by each of the HCAFs with key stakeholders in the sport to frame the recommendation to the UKA Board.

In approving the proposal, the UK Athletics Board acknowledged the strategic role of the HCAFs in administering the sport at junior age group level, while also recognising the important role carried out by the Rules Group on behalf of the whole sport.

The full implementation of the age group changes will come into effect from 1 April 2026.

A publication of a summary of changes and guidance notes will be on the 16 February 2024 as per the Rules consultation timeline.