Manu Bhaker Eyes Global Influence: Contests ISSF Athletes Committee Elections
Double Olympic medallist Manu Bhaker eyes a seat in the ISSF Athletes Committee to champion athlete welfare and sport stability.
India’s double Olympic medallist Manu Bhaker is stepping beyond the firing line to take on a leadership role in the global shooting community. Bhaker has been nominated as a candidate for the ISSF Athletes Committee for the 2026–2030 term, marking a significant move to influence the governance of her sport on an international scale.
Competing in the Pistol category, Manu is one of 10 candidates fighting for just two elected positions. Her bid is driven by a vision to create a more sustainable, progressive, and supportive environment for shooters across the globe, ensuring that the voices of those who actually compete are heard by the decision-makers.
A Vision for the Future of Shooting
Having navigated the intense pressures of elite competition, Manu Bhaker believes that athletes should be active architects of the sport's future rather than mere participants. Her agenda focuses on several critical pillars:
Technical Stability and Event Preservation
- Saving the Rapid Fire Pistol: A primary goal for Manu is to safeguard the Men’s 25m Rapid Fire Pistol event, ensuring its long-term place in the Olympic programme.
- Consistent Rulebooks: She is advocating for greater stability in technical rules across Olympic cycles, which would allow athletes to train with more confidence and consistency.
Financial Growth and Commercial Appeal
Manu aims to boost the economic viability of the sport by pushing for increased prize money across ISSF World Cups. To achieve this, she proposes introducing television-friendly competition formats designed to attract more broadcasters and sponsors, thereby creating more value for the athletes.
Athlete Welfare and Mental Health
Recognizing the psychological toll of high-stakes shooting, Manu’s plan includes:
- The implementation of dedicated sports psychology programmes.
- The creation of "quiet zones" at ISSF events to help athletes manage stress.
- A secure and confidential grievance redressal mechanism to ensure athlete concerns are resolved transparently and promptly.
Beyond the Podium: Career Transition
One of the most poignant aspects of Manu's vision is the focus on life after sport. She intends to advocate for practical financial security and structured career-transition pathways, helping athletes build sustainable lives once they retire from professional competition.
"It is an honour to be nominated for the ISSF Athletes Committee. I believe that athletes should not just be participants in the sport but also active voices in shaping its future. I want to contribute towards building an environment where athletes feel heard, supported and secure, both during and beyond their sporting careers," said Manu Bhaker.
How the Election Works
The ISSF Athletes Committee acts as the vital bridge between the international governing body and the competitors, advising on regulations, promoting clean sport, and improving competition conditions.
The voting process will take place during two major events in 2026:
- Cairo: During the ISSF World Championship 300m Rifle (October 17–19, 2026).
- Doha: During the ISSF World Championship Rifle/Pistol/Shotgun (November 3–13, 2026).
Eligibility to vote is open to all athletes who are at least 18 years old and actively participating in either of these World Championships. Each eligible voter can select a maximum of two candidates in each discipline.