Update – May 2026

British Rowing recognises that the topic of junior eligibility and recruitment has generated strong views across the rowing community. At times, this has led to a level of debate that has been difficult for those involved.

The Task & Finish Group was established at the request of the community to help a more constructive conversation. The Panel has worked independently, drawing on a wide range of submissions, focus groups and open consultations to ensure that different perspectives have been heard and considered.

The document published today sets out the Panel’s final reflections. It identifies clear areas of alignment across the sport, particularly around the need for greater clarity, consistency and fairness in how eligibility, recruitment and competition access are managed.

It also reflects where views remain more divided, most notably on how these principles should best be translated into practice. The Panel tested a potential approach through its recommendations, on which views were divided. Importantly, feedback identified that the consultation responses reflect structural tensions within the sport. Contrasting views are not just differences of opinion on policy design, they reflect wider differences in how individuals and groups experience our sport.

Responsibility for taking this forward now sits with the Rowing Committee, who will receive and consider the work completed by the Panel.

We thank all who contributed into this process, with particular thanks to the Panel who have fulfilled their role with great care and consideration.

We ask that continued discussion is conducted in a respectful and proportionate way. We welcome further input and encourage those with views to share them with the Rowing Committee through the formal channels provided. A webinar will be held at 12:30 on Friday 15 May. The webinar is open to all and will cover the conclusions and next steps recommended by the Task & Finish Group.

Details of how to contribute, along with opportunities to engage directly, are set out below.

Join the webinar on Friday 15 May at 12:30

Submit feedback to the rowing committee

Update – February 2026

The Junior Rower and Crew Eligibility Task and Finish Group has now published a draft Final Report and Recommendations.

The panel would welcome feedback ahead of finalising its recommendations. A webinar was held at 19:30 on 16 February to walk through the process, outline the draft recommendations, and explain how feedback will inform the panel’s final conclusions.

This work has been shaped through a wide-ranging and consultative process, including over 260 written submissions, focus group discussions, stakeholder engagement and an equality impact assessment. The draft reflects the breadth of views and evidence shared by clubs, schools, parents, coaches, athletes and volunteers across the sport.

Thank you to everyone who has contributed so far – your time and insight have been instrumental in supporting the Panel in it’s work.