Change takes effect from the 2026 European Youth Championships
The International Mixed Martial Arts Federation (IMMAF) will transition to the year-born system for all youth divisions (D, C, B, and A) starting in 2026, replacing the current date-of-birth eligibility rule.
This change aligns IMMAF with international sport standards, creating a simpler and fairer framework for athletes, parents, and national federations.
Under the new system, an athlete’s age division will be determined by their year of birth, not their exact birth date.
Youth A Exception
Youth A will remain capped at 17 years old (*)— athletes must not turn 18 before or during the Youth A competition period. All 18-year-old athletes are required to compete at the Junior/Senior level.
2026 Year-Born Categories
| Division | Eligible Birth Years |
| Youth D | 2014–2015 |
| Youth C | 2012–2013 |
| Youth B | 2010–2011 |
| Youth A | 2008*–2009 |
National federations are advised to apply the year-born system in their 2026 selection and registration processes.
Contact [email protected] for more information.
