The International Canoe Federation is excited to collaborate with Vaikobi, a leading manufacturer of high-performance paddling apparel and safety equipment, to support the growth of the discipline and strengthen the delivery of the 2026 ICF Canoe Ocean Racing World Series.
As Canoe Ocean Racing continues to expand globally, Vaikobi has committed to supporting every stage of the series and the World Championships.
Vaikobi will provide apparel for all organisers, Host Organising Committee (HOC) members and volunteers at every World Cup, from Madeira through to La Reunion.
Every medallist across all four World Cups will also receive a Vaikobi prize pack of high-quality, practical on-water gear which athletes will use in training and competition.
For the development camp at the World Championships in La Vila Joiosa, Spain, Vaikobi will fully equip every participating athlete with a complete safety kit, including personal flotation devices, leashes, technical clothing, drinking bladders, and waterproof phone cases at no cost to the athletes.
The programme in La Vila Joiosa is central to the ICF’s women’s development strategy and its mission to grow Canoe Ocean Racing across emerging nations.
Vaikobi’s commitment to equip 15 of the world’s most promising paddlers from various regions free of charge directly removes financial barriers that can prevent talented athletes from competing at the highest level.
“Vaikobi is committed to supporting the growth of Ocean Paddling globally and we are excited to come on as the supporting partner for the ICF Canoe Ocean Racing World Series in 2026,” said Patrick Langley, CEO and Founder of Vaikobi.
“To be able to expand the reach of Canoe Ocean Racing to many new regions around the world is incredibly exciting for our sport and is something that we feel very strongly about.”
The 2026 ICF Canoe Ocean Racing World Series comprises four World Cup events across four continents.
The next World Cup will be held from July 31 to August 2 in Tahiti, French Polynesia.
The World Championships will be staged in La Vila Joiosa from October 9 to 11
Marian Sarbu, Chair of the ICF Canoe Ocean Racing Committee, said: “When a brand of Vaikobi’s calibre commits across four World Cups and the World Championships, it tells the wider sports world that Canoe Ocean Racing is a serious, growing, and investable discipline.
“Their support goes well beyond visibility: every organiser or member of the HOC and volunteer on the water will represent the sport professionally, every medallist will be recognised with gear that reflects the quality of their achievement, and every TIP athlete arriving in La Vila Joiosa will be fully equipped, training and competing in gear that meets the highest standards of safety and quality.
“A World Series spanning four continents demands exactly this kind of partner. One that understands the diversity of the athletes and environments we work across, and steps up accordingly.
“That last point matters deeply to me, removing barriers for the next generation of ocean racers is at the heart of everything we are building.
“Vaikobi shares that vision, and their commitment to safety, sustainability, and performance aligns precisely with the values we want this discipline to stand for.
“This is the kind of partnership that does not just support a season. It helps shape the future of the sport.”
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