The force is strong with the French Fencing Federation, which now recognizes lightsaber dueling as a competitive sport.
Per the Associated Press, this now puts George Lucas’ laser swords alongside the foil, epee and sabre – the traditional blades used in the sport. Lightsabers, however, will not be recognized at the upcoming Paris 2024 Olympics.
During 3-minute matches, participants use rigid polycarbonate lightsaber replicas, with LED-lighting giving them their iconic glow – some even use the more expensive models that generate sound effects. Allowing lightsaber duels into the French Fencing Federation is largely a move to entice more young people to get into the sport, and to become more active in general.
Source: IGN.com French Fencing Federation Recognizes Lightsaber Duels as Competitive Sport