Ultimate Frisbee recognized by International Olympic Committee

The International Olympic Committee officially recognized the World Flying Disc Federation on Sunday, creating the opportunity for the organization to receive IOC funding and potential inclusion in the Olympic Games.

The International Olympic Committee officially recognized the World Flying Disc Federation on Sunday, creating the opportunity for the organization to receive IOC funding and potential inclusion in the Olympic Games. ​

The WFDF is the international governing body for several disc sports, most notably Ultimate Frisbee, a team game developed in the United States. The WFDF also governs Beach Ultimate, disc golf and disciplines. 

“This is an incredible milestone in the 30 year history of WFDF and a further important step for our International Federation in the development of our sport worldwide,” WFDF president Robert “Nob” Rauch said in a statement. “There could be no bigger anniversary present to WFDF, which was launched in August 1985, and we are looking forward to continuing to work with the IOC as our partner in promoting Flying Disc sports around the globe.”

There are two semi-professional Ultimate leagues in the U.S.—the American Ultimate Disc League and Major Leauge Ultimate. 

While Ultimate is now eligible to be included in the Olympics, it must compete against a wide range of more established sports for inclusion in the program. 

- Dan Gartland