On Tuesday, December 6^th, the International Cheer Union received provisional recognition from the International Olympic Committee (IOC) executive board.

The ruling is a huge milestone and giant first leap in becoming recognized as an Olympic sport. The governing bodies of cheerleading and combat sport, Muay Thai, will now receive $25,000 annually and can apply gradually for more grants.

The provisional recognition lasts three years, during which committee executives can vote to fully recognize the sports. Rumors are if cheerleading was granted admission into the Olympic games, it would be hosted as a winter sport – which aligns perfectly with cheerleading’s current season.

Meaning, if approved, cheerleading could take place in either the 2020 Summer Games in Tokyo or the 2022 Winter Games in Beijing.

Kit McConell, the IOC’s sports director, stated, “It is a sport with growing popularity, a strong youth focus in schools and universities and we noted that.” Adding the cheerleading federation has nearly 4.5 million registered competitors.

What an exciting time for our partner, International Cheer Union, cheerleading competitors and fans alike!

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