Fédération Internationale de Powerchair Football Association, known more commonly as FIPFA, stand as the paramount body overseeing the global growth and management of Powerchair Football. Founded in 2006, this Federation was born out of a concerted effort by founding nations to bring an international flair to Powerchair Football.

Objectives: As an autonomous Federation, FIPFA rallies behind National Organisations of Powerchair Football (NOPF) that champion Powerchair Football within their respective countries. Key goals of the association are:

• Promoting the growth and popularity of Powerchair Football worldwide.
• Setting up competitive matches and fostering promotional events.
• Ensuring widespread participation and inclusivity across member countries.

Membership and Zones: FIPFA boasts of 22 Member Countries that fall under three main zones:

• American Powerchair Football Confederation (APFC)
• European Powerchair Football Association (EPFA)
• Asia Pacific Oceania Powerchair Football Association (APO)

FIPFA History:

1978: The pioneering steps are taken in France with the establishment of “Football in electric wheelchairs.” This initiative aims to offer young individuals with severe disabilities an exciting recreational avenue.

1979: Canada independently introduces “Power Soccer,” and its popularity sees it spread to nations like the USA and Japan. Meanwhile, Belgium, Portugal, and Switzerland embrace “Wheelchair Football.”

1980-2005: Over these years, the sport evolves with countries adapting the original French and Canadian models to suit their local conditions. An example of the burgeoning international interest is Japan participating in a tournament in Arizona, USA, in the early 2000s.

2005: A landmark year in Powerchair Football’s history. Nations converge in Paris, aiming to craft a unified international version of the game. This collaboration culminates in the creation of a globally accepted rulebook, formally birthing Powerchair Football.

2006: In Atlanta, Georgia, these new rules undergo rigorous testing. Post validation, the International Federation of Powerchair Football Association officially adopts its Articles in Paris.

2007: FIPFA debuts on the global stage by organizing the inaugural World Cup in Tokyo, Japan, where nations competed to be crowned the first world champions of Powerchair Football.

2008: Powerchair Football gains more traction as the European Powerchair Football Association Power Champions League is launched, offering club teams a platform to compete internationally.

2009: This year is pivotal for FIPFA. It gains recognition by the International Paralympic Committee (IPC). Additionally, there’s a focus on capacity building with the initiation of international referee training programs and developmental clinics in different countries.

2011: Paris becomes the epicenter of Powerchair Football as it hosts the 2nd FIPFA World Cup. Nations from across the globe come together to compete for the coveted title.

2011-2013: These years see a flurry of activities – the introduction of various cups, the sport being demonstrated in new regions, and countries like Argentina joining the FIPFA community. 

2014: A whirlwind of activity marks this year. Spain becomes a FIPFA member. Various competitions spread across zones, and there’s a concerted effort to popularize Powerchair Football via demonstrations and tournaments.

2015-2016: Regional competitions surge during these years. There’s also a significant emphasis on youth engagement and fostering the next generation of Powerchair Football enthusiasts.

2017: Kissimmee, Florida plays host to the 3rd FIPFA World Cup. The competition witnesses high-octane matches, solidifying Powerchair Football’s position on the global sports map. This year also sees India and Turkey joining the federation, pushing the tally of participating countries to 28.

2020: The year might have seen a slow down in physical events due to global circumstances, but the passion for the sport remains undeterred.

2021: As the year unfolds, FIPFA’s influence spans across 24 member countries. The federation is also aware of about 10 other nations where the sport is gaining popularity, indicating a promising future for Powerchair Football.