IBSA places the highest value on integrity in sport. As one of its core principles, IBSA is committed to promoting true sportsmanship – we have a responsibility to reinforce values of sportsmanship and fair play across all sports for blind and visually impaired athletes.
 
It has come to our notice during recent competitions that some questionable –occasionally illegal – practices have taken place on the field of play. Although no one single action was sufficient on its own to influence the result of a match, the IBSA President and her executive board are taking such behaviour very seriously, and offences will be addressed in an appropriate manner. As part of an overall review, alteration of Rules and sanctions for athletes found guilty of transgression may be considered.
 
Sport should be recognised as the honourable pursuit of victory, whilst playing within the spirit, as well as the letter of the law. IBSA has an obligation to its athletes (the vast majority of whom behave impeccably) to encourage the highest ethical standards of behaviour – both on and off the field of play.
 
IBSA bears full responsibility for setting out clear guiding principles and constantly monitoring adherence to those principles, which will be reflected in a revised code of ethics in due course.