Centre Notifies National Sports Board and Tribunal Rules 2026 to Strengthen Sports Governance

The Government of India has notified the National Sports Governance (National Sports Board) Rules, 2026 and the National Sports Governance (National Sports Tribunal) Rules, 2026 under the National Sports Governance Act, 2025. The new framework aims to strengthen governance, improve transparency, and establish an efficient dispute-resolution mechanism in Indian sports.

National Sports Governance Act, 2025

·        The Act replaced the earlier Sports Code framework with a statutory system for regulating sports governance in India.It introduced provisions related to transparency, athlete representation, ethical governance standards, tenure limits for administrators, and dispute resolution.

·        It also created the framework for institutions such as the National Sports Board, National Sports Tribunal, and National Sports Election Panel to improve accountability and align Indian sports governance with international standards ahead of India’s bid to host the 2036 Olympics.

Key Features of the National Sports Governance (National Sports Board) Rules, 2026

¨     Composition: The National Sports Board will consist of a Chairperson and two Members appointed by the Central Government through a Search-cum-Selection Committee.

¨     Functions: The Board will act as the central authority for granting recognition to National Sports Bodies.It will ensure compliance with governance, financial and ethical standards.It will maintain a roster of the National Sports Election Panel and a register of affiliate units of National Sports Bodies.

¨     Powers: The Board may issue model guidelines and regulations on sports governance.It may recommend adoption of international best practices and organise stakeholder consultations and training programmes.

¨     Tenure and Eligibility: Chairperson and Members will hold office for three years or till the age of 65 years, whichever is earlier.They are eligible for one re-appointment.They cannot hold positions in any International Sports Body or National Sports Body during their tenure.

¨     Accountability Measures: Members must annually declare their assets, liabilities and financial interests.The Board’s accounts will be audited by the Comptroller and Auditor General of India (CAG).

Key Features of the National Sports Governance (National Sports Tribunal) Rules, 2026

¨     Purpose: The National Sports Tribunal will function as a dedicated adjudicatory body for sports-related disputes.It aims to reduce reliance on civil courts and provide speedy, independent and cost-effective dispute resolution.It will serve as a single-window mechanism for sports disputes.

¨     Tenure: The Chairperson will hold office for five years or till the age of 70 years.Members will hold office for five years or till the age of 67 years.They are eligible for one re-appointment.

¨     Appointment and Conditions: Appointments will be made through a Search-cum-Selection Committee.Serving judges or government officials must resign or take voluntary retirement before joining the Tribunal.Chairperson and Members must declare their assets and financial interests annually.

¨     Powers of the Tribunal: The Tribunal may issue orders, injunctions, interim orders, and stay orders.Its orders will be executable like a civil court decree.Digital and Techno-Legal Measures: The Rules provide for a dedicated online portal for filing disputes and documents; virtual hearings; communication and publication of orders; and maintenance of digital records.Tribunal orders will be digitally signed and communicated electronically.