Ski orienteering is set to become part of the compulsory programme for FISU from 2027 ©Getty Images

Ski orienteering has been approved as part of the compulsory programme for the International University Sports Federation (FISU) Winter World University Games from 2027.

The FISU Executive Committee made the decision to include the sport as part of its core programme.

It joins Alpine skiing, biathlon, cross-country skiing, curling, figure skating, freestyle skiing, ice hockey, short track speed skating and snowboard as sports which must be included on the Winter World University Games programme.

"It is a great result of teamwork and significantly improves the realisation of our Olympic ambition," said International Orienteering Federation President Leho Haldna.

"I would like to thank FISU for very good cooperation over the years and wish all the best for the future."

Lucerne 2021 will feature ski orienteering on its programme ©Getty Images
Lucerne 2021 will feature ski orienteering on its programme ©Getty Images

Ski orienteering was included as an optional sport at the 2019 Winter Universiade in Krasnoyarsk in Russia and is set to also feature at the 2021 Winter Universiade in Lucerne in Switzerland which was recently postponed to December 2021.

There is no guarantee yet that the sport will be included in the 2023 Winter World University Games in 2023 at Lake Placid in the United States; or the 2025 Winter World University Games, which is yet to determine a host.

Last month, FISU's Executive Committee stated that there was interest from Italy to host the 2025 edition of the Games.

The 2027 Winter World University Games also still have to be awarded.