About CMAS International Federation

The World Underwater Federation (CMAS) is the leading international organization dedicated to underwater sports, science, and technical disciplines. Founded to unify underwater enthusiasts globally, CMAS establishes international standards for safety, education, and competition across the globe.

History of CMAS

CMAS (Confédération Mondiale des Activités Subaquatiques) was established in January 1959 in Monaco. One of the key founding members and its first president was the legendary ocean explorer Jacques-Yves Cousteau. Over the decades, the federation expanded from a small group of European diving clubs into a powerful global network spanning all continents.

International Status

CMAS holds a highly respected international status. It is officially recognized by the International Olympic Committee (IOC), the International World Games Association (IWGA), and the Association of IOC Recognised International Sports Federations (ARISF). CMAS actively represents underwater disciplines at the World Games, continental multi-sport events, and cooperates with UNESCO on underwater cultural heritage preservation.

Core Activities

The federation's structure is divided into three major committees, reflecting its main pillars of development:

• Sports Committee: Regulates competitive underwater disciplines, organizes World and Continental Championships, and certifies international judges.
• Technical Committee: Develops secure international standards for recreational, technical, and cave diving, ensuring a unified certification system ("CMAS Stars").
• Scientific Committee: Focuses on marine biology, underwater geology, and marine archaeology, supporting research and conservation efforts.

Key Sports and Achievements

CMAS oversees an extensive list of officially recognized underwater sports that showcase human limits and technological progress. Key disciplines include:

• Finswimming: A dynamic and high-speed discipline included in the World Games.
• Freediving (Apnea): Competitive breath-hold disciplines in both pool and depth categories.
• Underwater Hockey and Rugby: Fast-paced, tactical team sports played entirely at the bottom of the pool.
• Spearfishing and Underwater Target Shooting: Precision-based traditional and modern disciplines.
• Visual Arts: Underwater photography and videography competitions that merge sports with artistic expression.

Partners and Global Network

CMAS coordinates over 100 national federations, including the Belarusian Federation of Underwater Sport. The organization maintains long-term partnerships with leading diving equipment manufacturers, environmental organizations, and global anti-doping bodies (WADA) to keep underwater sports clean, transparent, and eco-friendly.