New Delhi, November 3, 2026 — India’s two-time Olympic medallist Manu Bhaker has been nominated as a candidate in the Pistol category for the International Shooting Sport Federation (ISSF) Athletes Committee elections for the 2026–2030 term.
Election Overview and Category Field
A total of 22 athletes from 20 national member federations have been nominated across the Rifle, Pistol, and Shotgun disciplines, with two representatives from each discipline to be elected by fellow competitors. Bhaker is one of 10 nominees vying for the two elected slots in the Pistol category.
- Total Nominees: 22 athletes across 20 member federations
- Pistol Category Field: 10 nominees competing for 2 elected positions
- Term Length: 2026–2030
Voting Schedule and Eligibility
Elections will be conducted across two major 2026 ISSF World Championship venues:
- ISSF World Championship 300m Rifle (Cairo): 17–19 October 2026
- ISSF World Championship Rifle/Pistol/Shotgun (Doha): 3–13 November 2026
All active competing athletes aged at least 18 years at either championship are eligible to vote, selecting up to two candidates in each discipline (up to six candidates total across Rifle, Pistol, and Shotgun).
Role of the ISSF Athletes Committee & Manu Bhaker's Statement
The Committee serves as the direct bridge between active shooters and the ISSF on competition conditions, rules and regulations, clean sport initiatives, and athlete welfare across the Olympic Movement.
“It is an honour to be nominated for the ISSF Athletes Committee. As athletes, we dedicate our lives to our sport, and I believe it is equally important that our experiences, perspectives and concerns are represented in the decisions that shape its future. Having competed at the highest level, I understand the challenges and expectations that come with being an international athlete. If elected, I would look forward to listening to fellow athletes, understanding their concerns and contributing constructively towards making shooting a more inclusive, athlete-friendly and progressive sport.” — Manu Bhaker
At the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, Bhaker became the first athlete from independent India to win two medals at a single Olympic edition, earning bronze in both the women’s 10m air pistol and the 10m air pistol mixed team event alongside Sarabjot Singh.