British Wrestling is excited to announce the introduction of a new qualification policy for the 2026 British Wrestling Championships, taking place on 16–17 May 2026. This is an important step designed to ensure fairness, encourage participation throughout the season, and help athletes arrive at the Championships with valuable competition experience.
The British Wrestling Sports Committee has introduced this policy after listening to feedback from athletes, coaches, and clubs across the country. The aim is simple: to make sure that the national championships reflect the best of British Wrestling while supporting grassroots development.
What You Need to Know
From 2026 onwards, athletes will need to meet a minimum participation requirement to be eligible to enter the British Championships. Specifically, wrestlers must have taken part in at least two British Wrestling-sanctioned competitions within the 12 months leading up to the Championships.
It is important to note that:
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Meeting this requirement does not automatically guarantee a place at the Championships. Entries will continue to be accepted on a first come, first served basis during the entry period.
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All entrants must also hold a Full British Wrestling membership to compete.
By introducing this policy, British Wrestling hopes to encourage athletes to stay active and involved throughout the year, rather than focusing only on one major competition.
Exemptions to the Policy
We recognise that individual circumstances can sometimes prevent athletes from meeting the criteria. That’s why there are several exemptions available, including:
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Foreign athletes who are members of their own nation’s UWW federation.
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Wrestlers who entered two competitions but did not get to wrestle in at least one match at each due to walkovers.
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GBR Performance Pathway athletes, where the request comes from the Performance Manager.
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Veteran and Greco-Roman athletes.
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Athletes unable to compete due to long-term injury, illness, pregnancy, or other medical reasons, as long as they have a history of competing in the sport. Proof from a certified medical professional may be required in such cases.
In addition, the British Wrestling Sports Committee has the discretion to grant exemptions in other circumstances if needed. Athletes can apply for exemptions by emailing admin@britishwrestling.org.
Why This Matters
This new qualification policy is about more than eligibility; it’s about creating opportunities for wrestlers to gain valuable experience, stay connected with the wrestling community, and help the sport grow across the country.
We believe this approach will raise the standard of competition at the British Championships while supporting athletes at every level of the sport.
More details, including key dates for entries and events, will be shared in the coming months.
The selection policy is available to view and download below.
