All 12 nations have confirmed their participation in the 2026 Team Racing World Championship for keelboats, to be held in Stockholm from 12–16 August. This marks the first time the Swedish capital will host the championship, bringing together the world’s leading team racing sailors. The nations participating are Australia, Bahamas, Bermuda, Denmark, Finland, Ireland, Japan, New Zealand, Sweden, UK, USA 1, and USA 2.
The championship will take place on Riddarfjärden, in the heart of Stockholm, organised by Gamla Stans Yacht Sällskap on behalf of World Sailing. Twelve national teams from four continents will compete, featuring a total of 96 sailors.
Magnus Myrenberg, Project Manager for the championship, remarked, “That all nations are now confirmed shows the strong international interest in both the championship and Stockholm as a sailing venue. This will be a world championship of the highest calibre, both competitively and in terms of public appeal.”
Stockholm was selected as the host city following an international bidding process. The city’s experience in stadium-style sailing and the long-standing collaboration with the Stockholm International Team Race Regatta, held annually since 2016, were key factors in this decision.
“Being awarded the championship is recognition of many years of work with our partners and the City of Stockholm. The event will be one of the most accessible and spectator-friendly sailing occasions ever held in Sweden,” said Myrenberg.
Racing will occur from 12–16 August 2026 on Riddarfjärden, adjacent to Stockholm City Hall, allowing outstanding spectator experiences from various vantage points around the bay. The event will be free of charge and open to the public.
Team Racing is known for its gender equality, requiring each national team of eight to include at least three women and three men. Competitors will sail in identical J/80 boats, with over 140 matches expected in a highly spectator-friendly format.
The event hub will be the Sailors’ Village at Norr Mälarstrand, featuring race management, media areas, public spaces, cafés, sponsor zones, and grandstands. Activities will also include try-sailing experiences and radio-controlled sailing events.
Defending champions are already preparing for the upcoming championship. Will Bailey, skipper of the reigning Corinthian world champion team, noted the challenges and excitement of training in J/80s. He stated, “Racing in J/80s is new for us, so there’s been a steep learning curve. Training in the city, on a harbour course similar to Stockholm, has been invaluable. The races are short, intense, and incredibly close, making it exciting for both sailors and spectators.”
Sustainability is a core value of the event, with emission-free transport in Stockholm and support boats primarily powered by electricity or biofuel. The event will adhere to the World Sailing Sustainability Framework for food and waste management.
Facts about the Team Racing World Championship 2026 include:
Dates: 12–16 August 2026 (training day on 11 August)
Venue: Riddarfjärden, Stockholm
Organiser: Gamla Stans Yacht Sällskap
Participants: 12 national teams, 96 sailors
Boat type: J/80
Spectators: Free admission
Sustainability standard: World Sailing Sustainability Framework
#worldsailingofficial #TeamRacing #SailingChampionship #Stockholm2026 #KeelboatRacing
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