FAQ
Athletes qualify by placing at ICO designated qualifiers throughout the USA, or Gold Medaled at a previous international event.
Ages start from 7 to 70 in most divisions. For the combat and ring sports, ages will vary as we are always considering athletes safety and following appropriate concussion protocols.
After an athlete qualifies, you will submit your name and email address using the Register for 2026 Road to France link. Once you do that, you will receive a welcome to Team USA letter which will include your Team USA membership number.
Team USA doesn’t believe in limiting athletes. Qualifying for one division, qualifies you for any and every division offered at worlds.
Athletes will compete at the age they will be on October 14, 2026, the World Championships. Weigh-ins will be conducted at Worlds and adjustments will be made there.
For travel to France from the USA in 2026, U.S. citizens will need a valid passport (less than 10 years old, valid for 3+ months after departure) and must obtain an electronic
ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorisation System) authorization online before travel, starting late 2026, alongside potential biometric capture via the new EES system for short stays (up to 90 days in Schengen). You’ll also need proof of onward/return tickets and potentially funds/insurance.
Key Travel Documents & Systems for 2026
- Passport: An e-passport (with a chip) is essential, valid for at least three months beyond your intended departure from the Schengen Area and not older than 10 years.
- ETIAS: This is a digital authorization, not a visa, required for visa-exempt travelers like Americans for short stays (up to 90 days).
- When: Starts in the last quarter of 2026 (Q4 2026).
- How: Apply online via the official EU website.
- What you need: Personal info, travel document details, education/job info, and a €7 fee.
- EES (Entry/Exit System): Starting mid-2026, biometric data (fingerprints, facial image) will be captured at borders for non-EU visitors.