2026 Ice and Snow Sailing World Championships Open in Västerås, Sweden

by Marina Psychogyiou 17 Feb 09:23 GMT 16-21 February 2026

On Tuesday morning, 95 competitors from 12 nations will take to the frozen, snow covered surface of Lake Mälaren as the 2026 Ice and Snow Sailing World Championships officially begin in Västerås.

Hosted by Jolle Kappseglarna Västerås and supported by Visit Västerås, the event is held under the authority of the World Ice and Snow Sailing Association (WISSA).

Athletes will race using a wide range of wind powered equipment — wings, kites, and windsurfing sails — mounted on skis, snowboards, ice skates, or sleds. The result is one of winter sport's most diverse and visually striking fleets, with competitors gliding at high speed across the lake.

A Championship for All Generations

This year's fleet spans an extraordinary age range, from the youngest sailor at just 10 years old to the oldest at 72. Several families are competing together, with children racing alongside — and sometimes against — their parents. The atmosphere on the ice is already one of shared passion, friendly rivalry, and pure winter fun, even as the sport continues to nurture its long term ambition of joining the Winter Olympic programme.

A City That Has Embraced the Event

Västerås has welcomed the championship with enthusiasm. On Saturday, spectators were treated to a dramatic display as skydivers carrying the Swedish flag and the event flag landed directly on the ice in front of the clubhouse — a striking prelude to the week ahead.

The official opening ceremony kicked the event off at the JKV clubhouse, featuring a show of light and fire, Viking performers, and local food. The celebration set the tone for a week where sport, culture, and community meet on the frozen lake.

"We are incredibly proud to host the world here in Västerås," said Hans Holm, Commodore of Jolle Kappseglarna Västerås. "Our lake, our winter, and our club are ready. What makes this event special is the people — athletes, volunteers, families, and the entire city coming together. We want everyone to feel welcome on the ice."

Racing Ahead: Five Days of Competition

Racing begins Tuesday and continues through Saturday, featuring multiple formats:

• Course Racing: long legs across the lake, testing speed, tactics, and endurance

• Short Track Racing: tight, technical heats with close manoeuvres and fast, head to head progression

• The Marathon: Saturday's long distance race covering the full lake, a signature challenge of the World Championships

With conditions looking promising, competitors are preparing for a full and varied programme.

As the first start approaches, Västerås stands ready — the ice is set, the sails are rigged, and the world's best ice and snow sailors are poised for an unforgettable week on Lake Mälaren.

Find out more at www.isswc.com