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Paddle UK has released the official selection policy for the 2026 ICF Stand Up Paddleboard World Championships, setting out how athletes will qualify for Great Britain team places at next year’s event in Sicily, Italy (14–18 October 2026).
Selection tied to Battle of the Bay
Team places will be decided based on results at the GBSUP Battle of the Bay in Christchurch on 4–5 July 2026. All athletes wishing to be considered for Open and Junior teams must race at this event.
Selection will be “first past the post”, with finishing order at the Battle of the Bay determining team qualification in the relevant category and discipline. If a selected athlete cannot attend Worlds, the next athlete in the finishing order will be offered the place.
Events and team size
Paddle UK will select teams for both Long Distance and Technical races across Open and Junior (U18) men’s and women’s divisions, with up to four athletes per event and a maximum overall team size of 32 paddlers.
Up to two non-traveling reserves per event may also be named based on race results.
Eligibility highlights
To be eligible, athletes must:
meet ICF competition eligibility rules
be full members of Paddle UK or an appropriate National Association
meet nationality and age requirements (first eligible year is athlete’s 15th birthday year)
sign the Athlete Code of Conduct and hold valid travel documentation
These conditions are listed in the published policy
Performance intent and principles
The policy states a primary goal of selecting athletes capable of top-15 finishes at the World Championships and of supporting a clear pathway for future medal potential. Selection is designed to be transparent and primarily based on objective race results.
Exceptional circumstances and contingencies
There is provision for exceptional circumstances (for example illness or injury preventing attendance at the selection race). Athletes may be considered if they can demonstrate recent top-15 results at major international competitions such as ICF World Cups or Euro Tour events, and submit evidence to the Selection Panel within the stated timeframe.
The policy also allows contingency measures if racing at the Battle of the Bay is disrupted (e.g., severe weather), including rescheduling or alternative competition options.
Announcements and logistics
The Selection Panel will meet within seven days of the Battle of the Bay to confirm the team, with selections announced within five days of that meeting. Selected athletes are expected to cover their own costs for travel and participation.