In a major development that could reshape the future of competitive shooting, the International Shooting Sport Federation (ISSF) has announced upcoming amendments to its rules governing rifle gear, set to take effect from 2026. This move aims to counteract the growing influence of “technical doping” — a term used to describe performance advantages gained through increasingly rigid and high-tech shooting apparel.
In a detailed communication to all national shooting federations on Monday, ISSF Secretary General Alessandro Nicotra di San Giacomo stated,
“… current manufactured rifle jackets, trousers, and shoes will still be able to be used by athletes from 2026 onward, although some manipulation and adaptation may well be required to meet ISSF Rules and Regulations.”
A fresh amendment to these rules is scheduled for release on January 1, 2026.
The changes follow a recent ISSF workshop, held under increasing pressure from its leadership and executive committee. The concern? Specialized shooting suits had become so stiff and thick that they offered competitors undue stability — blurring the line between natural skill and gear-based assistance.
While the existing gear won’t be entirely banned, athletes will need to ensure their suits are adapted to comply with the new regulations. The intent is to level the playing field, ensuring that talent, training, and technique—not technology—determine podium placements.
One of the most striking consequences of this overhaul is that world records in rifle events will be reset. However, the ISSF has yet to reveal the exact mechanism or timeline for this record recalibration, leaving athletes and federations in suspense.
The ruling is likely to spark intense debate in the coming months, as federations brace for sweeping changes to training strategies, athlete preparation, and equipment compliance ahead of the 2026 competition calendar.
