Recognition of governing bodies
The list below details the Recognised governing bodies for each of the Home Countries. In some cases there is no Recognised governing body for the sport in any of the Home Countries or there is a UK or Great Britain body which has jurisdiction for some or all of the Home Countries.
List of UK Recognised NGBs and Sport List (Last updated September 2026)
Section 75 Screening and EQIA for Sports Councils Recognition Policy
Recognition process
The Sport and National Governing Body (NGB) Recognition Process is now open for applications following a comprehensive review of the Recognition Policy and process. The recognition process provides a consistent UK-wide framework for UK Sports Councils to recognise sports, disciplines and the organisations that govern and develop them.
The updated Recognition Policy (2026) sets out the purpose of recognition, and the criteria organisations must meet and has been developed to ensure it remains fit for purpose, transparent and consistent across the UK. The accompanying Application Guidance explains how to apply and how applications will be assessed.
Organisations must contact their relevant Home Country Sports Council to discuss their proposal and confirm eligibility before submitting an application.
Our Good Governance page provides further guidance on codes and good practice.
Independent Appeals Rules and Procedures 2026
If you have any queries about Recognition, email recognition@sportni.net
