Kosovo has reached one of the most significant milestones in its modern sporting history, officially becoming a national member with full rights in the International Ski Mountaineering Federation (ISMF). This historic decision represents a major breakthrough not only for ski mountaineering but also for winter and mountain sports in the Albanian context, positioning Kosovo firmly on the global Olympic sports map.
The decision to accept the Federation of Mountaineering and Sport Climbing of Kosovo as a full ISMF member was made by the ISMF Council after a thorough and detailed evaluation process. This evaluation recognized Kosovo’s consistent progress, institutional seriousness, professional standards, and long-term commitment to developing ski mountaineering in accordance with the highest international norms.
With this membership, Kosovo officially joins the global ISMF family, which currently includes 56 national federations worldwide. For a young country with a rapidly developing sports infrastructure, this achievement reflects vision, strategy, and credibility at the highest international level.
A Strategic Step for Kosovo and Albanian Sports
This success holds particular importance for Albanians, as it strengthens Kosovo’s international sporting identity and reinforces its role as a serious contributor to global mountain sports. Ski mountaineering is not only a demanding athletic discipline but also a sport deeply connected to alpine culture, resilience, and environmental awareness—values strongly embedded in Kosovo’s mountainous regions.
The acceptance into ISMF marks a strategic turning point, allowing Kosovo to officially participate in international competitions, world championships, and ISMF development programs. More importantly, it enables Kosovo’s athletes to compete under their national flag in events governed by Olympic standards.
Visionary Leadership and International Partnerships
Behind this major achievement stands years of coordinated and visionary work led by the leadership of the Federation, headed by Arianit Nikçi, whose commitment and international engagement have been decisive. Strong institutional leadership, combined with clear long-term objectives, laid the foundation for Kosovo’s recognition on the global stage.
A key role in this journey was played by the institutional partnership with Club Alpino Italiano (CAI), formalized through a Memorandum of Cooperation signed with CAI President Antonio Montani. CAI is one of Europe’s most prestigious alpine institutions, and this partnership significantly elevated Kosovo’s professional standards in ski mountaineering.
Professional Training and Building Local Expertise
Within this international collaboration framework, high-level professional training programs were delivered by the Italian National School, coordinated by renowned international expert Alessio Piccoli. These trainings created a solid technical and educational base for the sustainable development of ski mountaineering in Kosovo.
As a direct result, Bardhosh Morina, Mrika Nikçi, and Donat Hoti are now in the final phase of certification as ski mountaineering instructors. These professionals bring not only experience and technical excellence but also a strong reputation recognized beyond Kosovo’s borders. Their certification represents a critical step toward building a self-sufficient and internationally respected coaching system in Kosovo.
Ski Mountaineering as an Olympic Sport: A New Horizon
The significance of ISMF membership becomes even greater considering that ski mountaineering is now an official Olympic sport, set to debut at the 2026 Winter Olympic Games in Cortina d’Ampezzo. This historic inclusion opens unprecedented opportunities for Kosovo.
For the first time, Kosovo now has a realistic pathway toward Olympic representation in winter sports, increased institutional support for elite athletes, access to Olympic qualification systems, and stronger funding opportunities. It also motivates young athletes across Kosovo and Albanian communities to pursue winter sports at a professional level.
Governance, Safety, and International Standards
All ski mountaineering activities in Kosovo will be developed, coordinated, and supervised through the Ski Mountaineering Commission within the Federation, led by Bardhosh Morina. The Commission operates in full alignment with ISMF regulations, international safety standards, and Olympic principles, ensuring transparency, athlete protection, and long-term sustainability.
This structured governance model ensures that Kosovo’s integration into ISMF is not symbolic, but practical and impactful—focused on athlete development, competition readiness, and international credibility.
Kosovo’s Growing Presence in Global Mountain Sports
With ISMF membership, the Federation of Mountaineering and Sport Climbing of Kosovo has successfully transformed a national vision into an international reality. Kosovo is now proudly represented in the world’s most prestigious mountain sports organizations, including:
- UIAA – International Union of Alpine Associations
- ISF – International Skyrunning Federation
- IFSC – International Federation of Sport Climbing
- EUMA – European Mountaineering Association
- ICAR – International Commission for Alpine Rescue
- ISMF – International Ski Mountaineering Federation
This collective international presence reflects a high level of institutional maturity and reinforces Kosovo’s position as a trusted and active actor in global mountain and Olympic sports governance.
More Than a Sporting Success
This achievement goes far beyond sports results. It represents a powerful example of institutional consolidation, international recognition, and national pride. For Albanians in Kosovo and the diaspora, it sends a clear message: Kosovo is not only participating—but contributing—to the global sports ecosystem at the highest level.
By joining ISMF, Kosovo has taken a decisive step toward shaping its future in winter sports, inspiring new generations, and strengthening its international identity through excellence, professionalism, and cooperation.
Official Source: International Ski Mountaineering Federation (ISMF)