Applications Open for 2026 ILCA U21 World Championships

We are delighted to announce that applications are now open for the 2026 ILCA Under-21 World Championships, which will be held from 17–24 January 2026 in Playa Blanca, Lanzarote, Spain, hosted by Club Náutico Castillo del Águila.

This prestigious event will welcome the best young ILCA sailors from around the world to compete at one of Europe’s premier sailing destinations. Known for its consistent winds, stunning coastline, and excellent facilities, Lanzarote offers the perfect setting for exciting and highly competitive racing.

The ILCA Under-21 World Championships represent not just a pinnacle of youth sailing, but also a stepping stone toward elite international competition, including the Olympic pathway. Competing in Lanzarote will give athletes the chance to test their skills against the best young sailors in the world, while experiencing one of the most spectacular sailing venues anywhere.

Entry & Applications

The 2026 ILCA U21 World Championships is a restricted-entry, allocated event. Sailors wishing to participate must first complete an application form.

Total entries: Limited to 240 sailors

• 160 in the Men’s fleet
• 80 in the Women’s fleet

We encourage sailors to submit their applications early to maximize their chances of selection.

Important Dates

• Applications open: 21 July 2025, 00:01 (US Central Time)
• Close of applications for initial ranking and allocation: 19 September 2025, 23:59 (US Central Time)
• First round of entry offers: 26 September 2025, 00:01 (US Central Time)
• Late applications open: 27 September 2025, 00:01 (US Central Time)
• Final Entry Closing Date: 18 December 2025, 23:59 (US Central Time)

Plan Your Championship Experience

The official event website provides full details on:

• Travel to Lanzarote
• Accommodation options in Playa Blanca
• Local services and venue facilities
• Entry process and application form

All information is available here: https://2026ilcau21.ilca-worlds.org/

The ILCA Under-21 World Championships is a prestigious international sailing event that showcases the next generation of elite sailors in the ILCA class. Bringing together the best young athletes from around the globe, the championship provides a vital bridge between youth competition and senior-level racing. As a proving ground for future Olympians and professional sailors, it offers rising talent the opportunity to sharpen their skills, gain invaluable international experience, and build lasting connections within the worldwide sailing community.