Portimão To Host 2026 World Sailing Inclusion Worlds

16th February 2026

Afloat.ie Team

Sailors compete at a previous World Sailing Inclusion Championships event, showcasing high-performance Para and Inclusive racing ahead of Portimão hosting the 2026 edition in Portugal.

The 2026 World Sailing Inclusion Championships event, showcasing high-performance Para and Inclusive racing will take place at Portimão, Portugal

Portimão in Portugal will host the 2026 World Sailing Inclusion Championships, it has been confirmed. The event will run from 1–11 October 2026 and is expected to attract more than 250 competitors from over 40 nations.

Organised by World Sailing, the championship will feature a wide range of Para and Inclusive sailing classes. It will also include the Inclusive Development Programme (IDP). The regatta builds on the inaugural edition held in Oman. The 2026 event aims to combine elite competition with an accessible onshore programme.

World Sailing said the championship is designed as both a high-performance event and a platform to advance Para Inclusive Sailing globally. The successful bid was led by Vela Solidária. The city has previously hosted major events, including the Hansa World Championships.

Organisers cited accessible pontoons and lifting systems, adapted accommodation and transport, and close coordination with local authorities and medical services as key strengths.

The championship forms part of World Sailing’s Para Inclusive Strategy 2024–2029. The IDP will provide development opportunities for sailors, coaches and support staff from emerging nations.

Hannah Stodel, Para Sailing Manager at World Sailing, said the event is “about more than medals”. “They are about creating opportunity, building pathways, and proving that high-performance sport and inclusion go hand in hand,” she said. “Portimão gives us the environment, expertise, and ambition to take this event to the next level.”

Luís Brito, President of Vela Solidária, described the award as the result of a 15-year strategy to develop sailing for all. “The challenge is enormous,” he said. “The desire to welcome sailors from all over the world and provide them with a unique experience is what motivates us.”

Álvaro Bila, Mayor of Portimão, said the city was “deeply honoured” to host the championship. “As a sea-facing city, sport is a central pillar of our community and identity,” he said. “We look forward to welcoming the sailing community from around the world to Portimão in 2026.”

Published in World Sailing, Sailability

Published in World Sailing

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