The International Canoe Federation and the World Rafting Federation have signed an historic agreement which will see the two parties work together to jointly promote their activities into the future.

The deal brings the WRF under the umbrella of the ICF, but will have no impact on the running of day-to-day activities at the Rafting Federation.

But WRF President Danilo Barmaz said the partnership is important for the long-term security of rafting, and possible entry into multi-sport events, including the Olympics, in coming years.

“A new exciting adventure opens today and in which we have always believed,” Barmaz said.

“Just as we believe that the goal of the Olympic Games is possible. To underline this objective, we have a "Paris 2024 Cup" for youth teams in the 2018 Italian Cup.

The World Rafting Federation is working to give rafting a modern and dynamic vision, with particular attention to young people and athletes with disabilities. The creation of the Pararafting Commission as one of the first acts of the Federation underlines our commitment.

“The collaboration with the ICF will provide a great boost to the continued growth of our sport.”

ICF Secretary General, Simon Toulson, said the partnership is a fantastic outcome for both the ICF and the WRF.

“Rafting is an incredibly exciting discipline which is growing strongly around the world,” he said.

“For the ICF, which already has under its umbrella disciplines as diverse as canoe slalom, canoe sprint and canoe polo, rafting is a natural fit.

“This partnership will be of great benefit for both Federations. The ICF will help promote rafting to the international community, including the Olympic family, and the WRF will help raise the profile of the ICF among it’s passionate global community.”

The WRF holds regular rafting events on some of the most picturesque but challenging waterways in the world.