Rules & Requirements

Rules and Requirements

International Mr. Leather™ (IML) Contestants MUST be the winner of a bar, local, or regional leather contest which awarded the winner entry into the IML contest (a “preliminary contest”) vetted by a panel of judges. IML views the producer of this contest to be the contestant’s Primary Sponsors, and each such business or organization may only sponsor one (1) Contestant per IML year. A contestant must have a current title and is expected to compete for IML no later than two years from the end of their title year, (only one contestant with the same title may compete in any given IML year.) Once you have competed and become a member of the IML Brotherhood you cannot compete again.

To compete at International Mr. Leather, contestants must be male or masculine identifying and be 21 years of age or older as of the date that you register for IML in Chicago. In order to verify this eligibility, you are required to bring with you a copy of your government issued photo identification (driver’s license, state ID, or passport). We will make a copy of this document, and it will be placed with your application during the Contestant Registration in Chicago.

Contestant Applications must be completed online as soon as possible, but no later than April 30, 2026 by 2400 hours (midnight ) CDT. Upon online submission of your full and completed application, IML will send you an email confirming your participation and advise you when to register with the IML Officials at the host hotel in Chicago. You will receive other detailed information for the weekend during registration and orientation. Your on-time attendance at registration is required.

IML Contestants are required to provide all information requested on this application (you won’t be able to submit the application until all information is entered). If you have additional information that you would like the judges to have, you must bring 10 copies of each page with you when you arrive at Contestant Registration. While at Contestant Registration, you will be required to sign and date your Contestant Agreement and Contestant Photo Release form, stating that you will appear at all official IML events, including – but not limited to – Contestant Registration, Contestant Orientation, Opening Ceremonies, Preliminary Interviews, Physique and Stage Presence event, photo sessions, rehearsals, and the IML Contest on Sunday of Memorial Day weekend. Failure to appear as scheduled may result in disqualification.

If you have been convicted of a crime or have charges pending you are required to disclose them for IMLBB review.

All contestants are expected to adhere to IMLBB Statement of Ethics and Code of Conduct. IML reserves the right to remove any Contestant from the competition at any time, and for any cause. All applications must be approved by IML to compete.