In a move to overhaul the governance of sports in Sri Lanka, the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports on Friday (23) published a new set of regulations under the Gazette Extraordinary titled ‘National Sports Associations Regulations No. 01 of 2025.
This latest legislation replaces a series of previous legislations dating back to 2016 and seeks to install a clean, transparent and accountable framework for national sports federations.
The regulations, issued under the Sports Law No. 25 of 1973, signal a clear shift in Sri Lanka’s approach to sports administration-targeting integrity, equity and the promotion of excellence across all layers of sport.
All national sports associations are now mandated to register through the Director General of Sports, submitting extensive documentation, audited finances, committee details along with district-level activity reports.
A non-refundable fee of Rs. 30,000 applies. New associations will henceforth be placed on a two-year probation, with full registration pursuant to active operations in at least seven administrative districts.
A cap of 17 members per executive committee has been introduced, with strict eligibility criteria based on sporting achievements or professional expertise. At least two women will need to serve on all committees of sports involving women.
No individual can serve henceforth as President, Secretary or Treasurer for more than eight years or hold any executive position for more than 12 years in total.
Individuals with convictions related to corruption, doping or final misconduct, as well as active politicians, recent journalists or reporters, agents of national players and even those connected to gambling or betting spheres have been prohibited from holding office.
Rigorous protocols will in future govern nomination, voting eligibility and objection handling. Misconduct during elections or financial manipulation will pave the way for multi-year bans.
National Selection Committees, which will include at least one woman, will now be subject to increasing scrutiny.
Associations will now need to announce trials at least 14 days in advance, publish selection criteria and submit detailed reports. The ministry’s project officers will also be required to attend these trials.
National federations will now be compelled to host annual national championships, promote sport in all provinces, maintain athlete databases and formulate five-year strategic plans. They will also need to submit biannual progress and financial reports to the DG of Sports.
Strict or rigid guidelines prohibit the use of the term ‘Sri Lanka’ or the national emblem sans prior registration. Athletes and teams must undergo a full selection and approval process before turning out for the country or using its symbols overseas.
A new five-member Appeals Advisory Committee will handle all grievances related to selections and federation decisions.
All associations that were unable to hold elections for this year have been provided with a three-month recourse to do so under the direct supervision of the Sports Ministry Director General.
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