ICF Canoe Ocean Racing Committee activities Q4 2025

The fourth quarter of 2025 continued the strong momentum of Canoe Ocean Racing, with strategic development initiatives, high-level competition, and key structural decisions shaping the future of the discipline.

Central America and Caribbean Games 

A major focus of the quarter was international integration and regional growth. I attended a high-level meeting with representatives of the Central America and Caribbean Games, organised by ICF Vice President Cecilia Farias, which opened constructive discussions on the future inclusion of Canoe Ocean Racing within the Games programme. This represents an important step toward expanding the discipline’s presence in multi-sport events across the region, supporting its ambition to grow within major international multi-sport platforms. Further reinforcing this development pathway, meetings were held with the Guatemala and Puerto Rico Canoe Federations, focusing on the long-term growth of Canoe Ocean Racing in Central America and the Caribbean. As a concrete outcome, plans were initiated for a National Technical Officials (NTO) Seminar, scheduled for February–March 2026, aimed at strengthening technical capacity and event standards in the region.

Durban Delight and La Reunion Excitement 

The sporting highlight of the Q4 was undoubtedly the ICF Canoe Ocean Racing World Championships in Durban, South Africa. Challenging ocean conditions tested the very best athletes in the world, underlining the high technical and physical level of the discipline. The event was well delivered and left a good impression. The World Cup in La Réunion further demonstrated the significant potential of the region for the development of Canoe Ocean Racing. The dedication and commitment of the local organisers, combined with highly positive feedback from athletes, reinforced confidence in the future of events in the Indian Ocean region. 

Looking Ahead 

Preparations officially began for the 2026 ICF Canoe Ocean Racing World Championships in Villajoyosa, Spain. A first coordination meeting with the host organisers was held, establishing the framework for future planning, communication, and promotional activities. At the final ICF Board Meeting of 2025, the calendar for the 2026 season was completed with the approval of the Madeira World Cup, which will open the season and mark a return to the venue of the 2024 World Championships. The most significant strategic achievement of the quarter was the approval of the Canoe Ocean Racing World Series. This new concept will unite all five World Cups into a single global circuit, offering: 

• a unified identity across all events 
• increased sponsorship and media value 
• higher organisational standards and innovation 
• enhanced athlete engagement through a season-long ranking system 

Together, these developments position Canoe Ocean Racing for a landmark 2026 season, with stronger global structure, increased visibility, and a clear pathway for sustainable growth.

By Marian Sarbu, Chair of the ICF Canoe Ocean Racing Committee