Vulnerable adults
A new explicit duty to protect adults who, due to age, disability, illness or circumstance, may be unable to safeguard their own well-being within the sport.
Policy
About the World Triathlon Safeguarding Policy.
In November 2017, the International Olympic Committee launched a toolkit to assist International Sports Federations and National Olympic Committees in developing safeguarding policies. Based on the IOC guidance, the World Triathlon Executive Board approved the federation's first Safeguarding and Anti-Harassment Policy in April 2019. In parallel, two staff members were appointed as Lead Welfare Officers, the confidential point of contact for anyone reporting suspected harassment or abuse.
The policy was updated in 2021. Following an extensive review by an appointed working group, the Executive Board approved the current World Triathlon Safeguarding Policy in December 2025.
New definitions and concepts in 2026.
The 2026 policy is more detailed and modernised, especially around digital behaviour, coercion and the risks that arise from poor practice before actual abuse occurs.
Poor practice
Behaviours and patterns that fall short of expected standards — recognised as safeguarding risks before they escalate into actual abuse.
Grooming
The deliberate establishment of an emotional or trust connection with a child or vulnerable adult in order to manipulate, exploit or abuse them.
Exploitation
The use of a power imbalance to take advantage of an individual for personal, financial, sexual or sporting gain — across all roles in the sport.
Online abuse & cyberbullying
Harm carried out via digital channels: messaging, image sharing, social media or any online context that connects participants of the sport.
Abuse of authority
The misuse of a position of power — coach, official, federation officer — to coerce, intimidate or otherwise harm an athlete or colleague.
Read the full 2026 Safeguarding Policy.
Available in English, Spanish and French. Updated December 2025, in force across all World Triathlon activities from January 2026. - or open the report form directly.