STB Statement 

IBF/EBF Urethane/Slow Oil-Absorbing  

Bowling Ball Restrictions 

Scottish Tenpin Bowling (STB) confirms that, as an affiliated member of both the European Bowling Federation (EBF) and the International Bowling Federation (IBF), we will adopt the recently announced restrictions on Urethane/Slow Oil-Absorbing bowling balls. 

These restrictions will apply only to STB Ranking Tournaments and to events organised directly by STB where results may contribute to rankings, national team selection, or to National Events hosted by STB. 

STB Ranking Tournaments play a significant role in selecting athletes for Scottish National Teams competing at European and World Championship level. As these championships will operate under the updated EBF/IBF regulations, STB considers it essential that competitions forming part of the selection process follow the same equipment standards. 

Applying this rule within STB Ranking Tournaments ensures athletes are assessed under conditions that closely reflect international championship environments, supporting national team coaches in making relevant and consistent performance evaluations. 

Background / IBF definitions: 

• Only Urethane/Slow Oil-Absorbing bowling balls manufactured with a minimum hardness of 78D and approved by USBC may be used. 

• Random hardness checks may be carried out during competition. 

• Any ball testing below 72D will be declared noncompliant and removed from play. 

EBF has confirmed that this rule will apply to all EBF European Championships from 6 April 2026, following the conclusion of the European Youth Championships 2026 in Berlin. [see exceptions] 

Scottish Tenpin Bowling –  Adoption of the Rule 

STB will adopt this regulation as stated, in line with our EBF and IBF affiliation. 

 
This means that Urethane/Slow Oil-Absorbing bowling balls that do not meet the 78D requirement will not be permitted in STB Ranking Tournaments or hosted events after 6^th April (see exceptions) 

Information for Athletes and Coaches 

All athletes are asked to review their equipment and ensure full compliance with the new requirements. 

 
STB National Team Coaches and Team Managers will have support routes so that they in turn can assist athletes in preparation. 

Please refer to this link showing the official USBC list of noneligible bowling balls

Leagues and Clubs 

The ruling does not automatically apply to leagues, local tournaments, recreational competitions, or other events not organised or sanctioned by STB. Decisions regarding the adoption of this rule within those environments remain the responsibility of the relevant league officials, club committees, or event organisers. 

Next Steps 

STB will publish detailed testing procedures and implementation guidance after publication by EBF. 
We encourage all athletes, coaches, and officials to familiarise themselves with these once released. 

Exceptions 

Adult Nationals Masters Event – 29^th March 2026 

• The Masters falls before 6^th April, however, STB will apply the new Urethane/Slow Oil-Absorbing restriction early for this event. 

• This is because the Masters winners will represent Scotland at the European Championship of Champions (ECC) in October 2026, where the EBF/IBF Urethane/Slow Oil-Absorbing rule will be applied, we therefore feel the final selection event should carry that same bowling ball criteria as the Championship. 

Senior Triple Crown,17-19^th April – Hosted by Tenpin Bowling Association of Wales (TBAW)  

• TBAW have advised that their effective date of the ruling will fall later, therefore the Senior Triple Crown (STC) will NOT be subject to the restriction.   STB’s Senior Triple Crown Team may continue training with or include listed balls in their arsenal for this event as they WILL be eligible for use.