World Sailing has opened applications for its 2026 Women in Sport High Performance Pathway (WISH) Programme. The initiative aims to increase female representation in elite coaching at Olympic, World Championship, and major-event levels.
Launched as a pilot in 2019, the programme was developed with the International Olympic Committee and is supported by Olympic Solidarity. It targets women coaches working at, or with potential to reach, the national delegation level. Despite gender parity among Olympic athletes, women remain underrepresented in high-performance coaching roles. Female coaches account for just 13% across most sports.
Since its launch, more than 125 women from 22 sports and 60 countries have completed the programme. World Sailing has supported five coaches through previous editions.
The 2026 pathway will run for 21 months. It includes residential leadership sessions, online modules, mentoring and practical learning experiences. The programme is delivered in partnership with National Olympic Committees and International Federations. Eligible candidates must already be, or have the potential to be, part of a national team competing at regional, continental, youth, or elite-level events.
Fiona Kidd, World Sailing’s Head of International Development, said the programme goes beyond training. “This year’s opportunity is more than training, it’s a chance for the next generation of women leaders in sport who need access, opportunity and support,” she said.
“WISH provides exactly that. The programme seeks to address the disparity in female coaches at the highest level by building a pipeline of talented women ready to lead, develop and empower athletes on the global stage.”
Applicants must submit a coaching and sailing CV and a one-page cover letter outlining their motivation and objectives.
Entries should be sent to [email protected] by Thursday, 12 March. Further details are available via World Sailing.
