ILCA 4 Youth World Championship 2026 in Aarhus - Overall
by Agustín Argüelles 10 Aug 07:38 BST
1-9 August 2026
Eleni Triantou and Leo Gosling emerged as the big winners as 448 young sailors wrapped up the 2026 ILCA 4 Youth World Championship in Aarhus after a demanding week of strong winds, sunshine and intense racing on Aarhus Bay.
448 happy but tired sailors brought the 2026 ILCA 4 Youth World Championship to a close today with a series of intense races on Aarhus Bay, sailing in good breeze and sunshine.
After six races in total for the Gold Fleet in the Final Series, Eleni Triantou GRE from Greece can now call herself World Champion in ILCA 4 Girls.
“I feel amazing. It has been a tough week with strong winds and challenging conditions, but I managed to stay calm and focused, even when I made some mistakes. I was a bit stressed on the final day, but I managed to hold my position and win,” Eleni explains and continues:
“It’s my first World Championship and my first world title, so it feels amazing. I really enjoyed the week, even though the weather is very different from Greece. I definitely had to wear warmer clothes here.”
Leo Gosling SUI from Switzerland convincingly claimed the gold medal in the ILCA 4 Boys fleet.
“I’m lost for words. It’s not my first title, but this is definitely the biggest moment in my sailing career so far. I came here believing that I could win. During the week I wasn’t always so sure, but I tried to stay calm, stay focused and be consistent. You must believe in yourself and act on that belief,” says Leo.
“It’s been an incredible week and one I’ll never forget. I tried to recover every night and be ready for the next day, and in the end, it paid off.”
The remaining fleets completed five races in the Final Series before the championship officially comes to an end with a festive prize-giving ceremony in the main boat hall at Aarhus International Sailing Center.
Although it has been a long week with plenty of wind and many hours on the water, there was still plenty of energy for smiles and conversations in the boat park as the sailors packed away their equipment.
The sailors will undoubtedly take home more than just memories of their sporting achievements. New friendships and a strong sense of community across the 51 participating nations will also be among the lasting memories from a week in Aarhus.
“It’s been great having so many young sailors from all over the world gathered here. Thanks to the ILCA Class for letting us host this big event. And thanks to all the officials and volunteers who made it possible. Even though everybody had some rough times on the water during the week, the atmosphere at the venue has been amazing,” says Regatta Manager Per Hjerrild.
Some sailors are not leaving Aarhus just yet. Among them is Leo Gosling, who will also compete in next week’s 2026 ILCA 6 Youth World Championships, which will likewise take place in Aarhus.