2026 Ice and Snow Sailing World Championships set for Lake Mälaren, Västerås, Sweden
by WISSA 24 Nov 2025 07:37 PST
16-21 February 2025
2026 Ice and Snow Sailing Worlds © WISSA
The World Ice and Snow Sailing Association (WISSA), in collaboration with the Local Organizing Committee (LOC), is proud to announce the 2026 Ice and Snow Sailing World Championships, a thrilling celebration of wind-propelled sport on ice, hosted in the stunning lakeside city of Västerås, Sweden.
This landmark event brings together the world's fastest and most passionate ice and snow sailors across three dynamic sail classes: Kite, Wing, and Windsurf.
From February 16 to 21, the frozen waters of Lake Mälaren will transform into a high-speed arena of skill, strategy, and camaraderie, where athletes from around the globe compete in one of winter's most exhilarating disciplines.
A Sport of Speed, Skill, and Olympic Ambition
Ice and snow sailing, powered solely by the wind, is a sport of precision, endurance, and elegance. With growing international recognition and support from leading sailing race officials and administrators, this discipline aspires to join the ranks of the Winter Olympic Games, showcasing the beauty and intensity of wind sports on hard water.
Will Tuthill, WISSA president, commented "Ice and snow sailing is more than a sport; it's a celebration of wind, winter, and human creativity. The 2026 World Championships in Västerås will showcase the very best of our global community, united by speed, skill, and the shared dream of giving the sport the recognition it deserves."
Welcome to Västerås: Nature, Adventure, and Hospitality
Located just an hour from Stockholm, Västerås offers a unique blend of accessibility, scenic beauty, and warm hospitality. With its rich maritime heritage and reliable winter conditions, the city is an ideal venue for the championships.
Visitors can expect crisp Nordic air, consistent ice conditions and a welcoming community with a passion for winter sports. And for after racing, local experiences including saunas, lakeside walks, and cultural attractions.
Frank Krönert, Chair of the Local Organizing Committee said "We're thrilled to welcome the world to Västerås. This race is made by athletes for athletes, and we aim to bring the sport to the people rather than the people to the sport, which is easy in Västerås. Our team is composed of athletes, volunteers, and local partners and we are all working hard to deliver a championship that's fair, fun, and unforgettable. Supported by the city of Västerås, there will surrounding events. Be surprised! So, whether you're racing or cheering, we promise an experience full of Swedish charm and world-class competition."
Getting Here & Staying Here
Västerås is easily accessible via train, bus, and car from Stockholm and other major Swedish cities. The LOC is working closely with Visit Västerås to provide comprehensive transport and accommodation options for athletes, teams, and spectators. Details on travel packages, hotel partnerships, and local amenities will be available soon.
Registration & Age Categories
Entry information, including registration procedures, fees, and age groups are detailed in the Notice of Race, published under www.isswc.com. The event will welcome participants across multiple age brackets, ensuring inclusive competition and opportunities for youth, adult, and senior categories.
Organized by Sailors, for Sailors
The Local Organizing Committee, composed of internationally experienced athletes and supported by the Swedish Skatesailing Association, JKV Sailing Club, Visit Västerås, and the Swedish Ice Sailing Federation, is committed to delivering a championship that is fair, fun, and full of energy.
Whether you're an athlete, a fan, or a curious newcomer, we invite you to experience the thrill of wind-powered motion on ice. Join us in Västerås for a week of speed, tactics, and smiles. Welcome to Sweden, to Västerås and to the 2026 Ice and Snow Sailing World Championships.