BF RANKINGS AND THEIR PURPOSE

Last Updated: 18.03.26

On this page:

• The purpose of the BF Rankings
• Who uses the rankings
• Why six results count
• How rankings support GBR selections
• When rankings matter for domestic and major events

PURPOSE OF THE BF RANKINGS

The BF Rankings recognise athlete performance across the sport and support fair, transparent decision‑making. They show relative ability within each weapon, age group and competitive gender category, and form an important benefit of BF membership.

WHO USES THE RANKINGS?

A range of individuals and organisations use the rankings to support consistent decisions:

• Competition organisers seed the first round of domestic events.
• Regions, Home Nations and BF selectors refer to rankings alongside other selection factors.
• Athletes, coaches and clubs use them to track progress and plan development.

WHY DO ONLY SIX RESULTS COUNT?

To support athlete wellbeing and encourage sustainable competition schedules, only an athlete’s best six results contribute to their ranking. This helps reduce pressure to attend every event while still recognising consistent performance. Older age categories may be reviewed separately if needed.

ARE THE RANKINGS USED FOR GBR SELECTIONS?

Yes. Rankings help inform selection for the U17, U20, U23 and Senior GBR categories. U14 athletes who appear in the rankings and are placed in the top 50% may apply to compete at U14 EFC international events.

WHEN DO RANKINGS MATTER FOR DOMESTIC COMPETITIONS?

Rankings are used solely for seeding the first round of domestic competitions. While a higher ranking can provide a more favourable start, final results are determined entirely by performance on the day.

WHEN DO RANKINGS MATTER FOR GBR SQUAD SELECTION?

Rankings help identify athletes who may receive automatic invitations for international representation.

• Athletes placed in the top eight at the relevant selection point are most likely to receive automatic invitations.
• Squad sizes vary, and discretionary places may also be offered.
• Athletes outside the top eight are not guaranteed selection.

WHEN DO RANKINGS MATTER FOR MAJOR INTERNATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIPS?

At this point in the season, rankings play a limited role. Selection for major championships focuses on strong and consistent international results.

Rankings may assist selectors when:

• More athletes have qualified than there are places available.
• Identifying which qualified athletes should receive automatic places.
• Discretionary factors are otherwise equal and rankings help separate comparable athletes.

A higher ranking alone does not guarantee selection if an athlete has not met the qualification standards set out in the relevant Selection Policy.

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