The International Amateur Athletic Federation (IAAF) is an international governing body responsible for the regulation and promotion of athletics worldwide. With a history dating back to 1912, the IAAF has played a significant role in the development and organization of athletic competitions on a global scale.
As a non-profit organization, the IAAF brings together national athletic associations from various countries, ensuring the coordination and standardization of rules, regulations, and procedures related to track and field events. The primary mission of the IAAF is to promote and govern the sport, setting guidelines for fair play, safety, and integrity in athletics.
The IAAF governs a wide range of disciplines within athletics, including but not limited to sprints, middle-distance running, long-distance running, hurdles, jumping events (such as long jump and high jump), throwing events (like shot put and javelin throw), and combined events (such as decathlon and heptathlon). It establishes rules for competitions, record keeping, drug testing, and athlete eligibility, as well as issues guidelines for the organization of major international events, like the World Athletics Championships.
Moreover, the IAAF strives to develop and support talent at all levels, from grassroots to elite competitors. It offers educational programs, coaching certifications, and funds for the development of athletics infrastructure in various countries. Through its activities, the IAAF aims to foster the growth and unity of athletics while promoting the values of fairness, solidarity, and inclusiveness.
