Who can compete in para dance sport?
A · Advanced · Events and classes · 1 of 3Recognised competitions are the World and Regional Championships and the World Cup. Dancers must be at least 13 by 31 December, hold a WPDS licence, be entered by their federation and be classified. A federation may enter three couples or dancers per event and class at championships. Medals go to the top three; both partners receive one.
How it works
- Top level: World and Regional Championships, World Cup.
- Age: 13 by 31 December.
- Juniors: 13 to 20.
- Licence: from WPDS.
- Entries: three per event and class.
- Medals: top three, both partners.
- Three entries only: two medals.
- Ranking: best four results over two years.
The glossary has the competition levels, the age and eligibility, the entries, the medals, the ranking and the protest.
Tricky cases
Only three couples finish a championship event. Who gets medals?
The first two; the third gets a certificate.
How is a protest made?
By the team leader, within 30 minutes, with a 100-euro fee.
Can a protest be about judging?
No. Only rule breaches.
Is there a limit on World Cup entries?
No.
Why the rule exists
Withholding a bronze in a three-couple field means a medal is never won for entry alone.
Where it differs
| Where | What changes | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Championships | Three entries | R 3.3.2 |
| World Cup | No limit | R 3.3.2 |
| Three couples | Two medals | R 4.1.10 |
From the rule book
World Para Dance Sport, 2026 Rules and Regulations, articles 3.1, 3.3, 3.6, 3.7 and 4.1.10. Checked 15 October 2026. Official documents: WPDS 2026 Rules and Regulations and the classification pages.