The IOF has taken an important step towards strengthening inclusivity and cooperation in international sport by formalising a partnership with the International Committee of Sports for the Deaf (ICSD). The partnership is established through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between the two organisations.
Orienteering has long been a popular sport within the deaf community. It is already included in the programme of the Deaflympics, the multi-sport event for deaf athletes recognised by the International Olympic Committee. The next edition of the Deaflympics will take place in Tokyo in November 2025, where orienteering will once again be among the featured sports.
In addition to the Deaflympics, the ICSD also oversees the Orienteering Championships for the Deaf, dedicated events that continue to showcase the skill and passion of deaf orienteers around the world.
As part of the new agreement, the IOF will appoint event advisers to support ICSD orienteering events, ensuring alignment with IOF standards and providing expertise in event management and course planning. The partnership will also facilitate closer cooperation to further develop and promote orienteering within the deaf community globally.
”We are delighted to strengthen our collaboration with the ICSD,” says IOF President Tom Hollowell. “Orienteering is a sport for all, and this partnership reinforces our shared commitment to making the sport accessible and inclusive at every level.”
From the left: IOF General Secretary Sondre Gullord, IOF President Tom Hollowell, ICSD Vice President Yutaka Osugi and ICSD International Sports Director, Jürgen Endress after signing the MoU at the International Federation Forum in Lausanne, Switzerland.