International Olympic Committee Grants Full Recognition to World Lacrosse

COLORADO SPRINGS, COLORADO, USA — World Lacrosse took an historic step forward in its continued growth and development today, as the International Olympic Committee (IOC) Membership voted to grant Full Recognition to the international federation for lacrosse. The vote took place during the 138th IOC Session in Tokyo ahead of the upcoming Olympic Games.

For World Lacrosse, the conferral of Full Recognition by the IOC is the fulfillment of a goal the organization first established for itself more than a decade ago and is a reflection of the vision and contributions of countless volunteers around the globe who have been steadfast in their commitment to support the continued growth of lacrosse by expanding opportunities for participation at every level.

“This is a momentous day for lacrosse enthusiasts around the world and a reason for our entire World Lacrosse family to celebrate,” said World Lacrosse President Sue Redfern. “We are deeply grateful to the Membership of the International Olympic Committee for today’s vote and the expression of confidence it reflects. With Full Recognition comes greater responsibility, and we are committed to serving as an active and engaged member of the international sport community and supporting our partners across sport.”

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Two recent, major milestones in the pursuit of Full Recognition by the IOC were:

November 30, 2018 — the IOC Executive Board grants Provisional Recognition to World Lacrosse
June 10, 2021 — the IOC Executive Board approves a recommendation from the
IOC Sports Department to grant Full Recognition to the international federation for men’s and women’s lacrosse

As part of the evaluation process for Full Recognition, the IOC Sports Department conducted a comprehensive review of more than 500 pages of material submitted by World Lacrosse before making its recommendation the IOC Executive Board.

The grant of Full Recognition by the IOC ensures World Lacrosse will maintain its status as a member of the Association of IOC Recognized International Sports Federations (ARISF). Additionally, World Lacrosse will continue to be eligible to receive financial support through the IOC Development Program and will continue to benefit from access to IOC meetings, educational seminars, publications and other resources.

Moreover, the conferral of Full Recognition means World Lacrosse and the game it stewards will continue to grow in stature and influence in the community of international sport.

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World Lacrosse is also undertaking a full review of its current World Championship structure, with an aim toward improving the experience for participating athletes while increasing the visibility and marketability of these signature properties.

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