The International Rafting Federation (IRF) and the World Rafting Federation (WRF) have agreed to unite into a single global governing body. This historic agreement is seen as a major milestone in the world of rafting.
On June 5, 2025, International Rafting Federation President Joseph Willis Jones and World Rafting Federation President Danilo Barmaz signed a Letter of Intent with SportAccord in Istanbul, Turkey to apply for membership in the Alliance of Independent Recognised Members of Sport (AIMS). This collaboration aims to create one unified international rafting federation that can represent the sport worldwide.
AIMS is recognized by the International Olympic Committee (IOC) and acts as a platform to support federations in gaining official recognition. SportAccord, a global sports management body, is helping facilitate this process.
This step will bring both major rafting organizations together, aligning the interests of global athletes, guides, national federations, and other stakeholders under one roof. Both IRF and WRF are committed to building a stronger and more inclusive future for rafting.
The process began last year when both presidents met at the SportAccord office in Lausanne, Switzerland, and signed an agreement to explore unification. Since then, their joint task forces have been working to design a structure that reflects the diverse reality of the international rafting community.
The key principles of the unification were once again confirmed during their meeting in Istanbul. These principles will now be voted on within both federations. Once approved, the proposal will be opened for feedback from national bodies, players, and other rafting representatives around the world.
Both presidents have expressed satisfaction with the outcome and are hopeful that the merger will lead to a balanced and effective new institution. Technical teams from both sides will continue working together to finalize the structure and procedures.
Although there is still work ahead, this agreement shows a clear commitment to forming a united and recognized international rafting federation.
Rajiv Shrestha, President of the Nepal Rafting and Canoeing Association, called this a significant step and said the unification would benefit everyone in rafting—from players to guides and coaches.
