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The 2026 World Rowing Under 23 Championships officially got underway at the Duisburg Regatta Course with a festive Opening Ceremony. Around 1,000 athletes, coaches and team officials from approximately 50 nations entered the venue carrying their national flags to enthusiastic applause from the spectators. Algeria led the Parade of Nations, while host nation Germany received a particularly warm and emotional welcome as the final team to enter.
Just one hour before the Opening Ceremony, the modernized Duisburg Regatta Course—with its new Regatta House, Finish Tower and renovated grandstand—was officially inaugurated. Following an investment of around €30 million, the venue is now ready for its first major test as the host of a World Rowing Championship.
“I would especially like to extend a warm welcome to the athletes, coaches and team officials from more than 50 nations here in Duisburg and Germany. I wish you fair racing, unforgettable experiences and the opportunity to perform at your very best over the coming days,” said Organizing Committee Chair Tobias Weysters. He also thanked the event’s many partners and nearly 200 volunteers, “who are the face of these World Championships and create the unique atmosphere here at the regatta course.”
Duisburg’s Mayor, Sören Link, described the Under 23 World Championships as a glimpse into the future of international rowing. “All of you have worked incredibly hard for this moment, and we are proud to provide you with a stage at our historic regatta course,” he said. He added that the Duisburg Regatta Course enjoys an outstanding international reputation as the “Wimbledon of rowing” and will become an unforgettable milestone in the careers of many of the participating athletes.
World Rowing President Rolland Praises the Venue
World Rowing President Jean-Christophe Rolland also highlighted the importance of the venue. “It is a great pleasure to return to Duisburg for the World Rowing Under 23 Championships. Following its extensive modernization, this historic regatta course is once again ready to host a World Championship.” He wished all athletes fair and exciting racing and the opportunity to deliver their very best performances.
The Opening Ceremony also featured an entertaining cultural programme with three live performances. The parkour group Flyguys thrilled the audience with spectacular acrobatics, the acrobatic duo Juri + Jago impressed with breathtaking routines, while the Ruhrpott-Guggis created a lively atmosphere with their Guggen music, encouraging the crowd to sing along to classics such as Völlig losgelöst.
Racing Begins on Thursday
With the Opening Ceremony complete, the stage is now set for the sporting action. The first race of the Championships will get underway on Thursday at 9:05 a.m. with the opening heats. Over the following four days, the world’s best Under 23 rowers will compete for world titles across 20 boat classes. The first medals will be awarded on Saturday, with the final World Champions of Duisburg 2026 crowned on Sunday.
Tickets remain available for all competition days. They can be purchased online at duisburg2026.com or at the ticket office at the regatta course.
The 2026 World Rowing Under 23 Championships receive financial support from the German Federal Government, the State of North Rhine-Westphalia, the City of Duisburg, the Regionalverband Ruhr and the Sparkassen Sports Foundation.
For further information, including entries, schedules, the race programme and live results, visit www.duisburg2026.com.
