ICF Opens Bidding Process for 2027 SUP World Championships
A view of the 2025 World SUP Championships in Abu Dhabi. | Photo courtesy: ICF
SAN DIEGO, California - The International Canoe Federation (ICF) has officially opened the bidding process for the 2027 ICF Stand Up Paddling (SUP) World Championships, inviting national federations and host cities worldwide to submit proposals to stage one of the sport’s premier international events.
Following continued global growth in stand up paddling—both competitively and recreationally—the ICF is seeking experienced and visionary hosts capable of delivering a world-class championship that reflects the sport’s evolution, accessibility, and international appeal.
The ICF SUP World Championships bring together elite athletes from across the globe to compete in multiple disciplines, including sprint, technical race, long distance, and team events. The event also serves as a key platform for national federations, industry stakeholders, and emerging paddling nations to engage with the sport at the highest level.
A Strategic Opportunity for Host Cities
Hosting the 2027 championships presents a unique opportunity for cities and regions to:
Showcase natural waterways and coastal assets on a global stage
Drive international tourism and economic impact
Strengthen ties with the growing paddle sports community
Promote sustainability and outdoor recreation initiatives
The ICF is particularly focused on host destinations that can demonstrate strong organizational capacity, suitable competition venues, athlete and spectator infrastructure, and alignment with environmental and sustainability standards.
2025 ICF SUP World Championships in Abu Dhabi. | Photo courtesy: ICF
Bid Process and Timeline
The bidding process is open to all ICF member federations in good standing. Interested parties must collaborate with their respective national federations to submit a formal bid proposal.
Key elements of the bid include:
Detailed venue and course plans across all race formats
Accommodation and transport logistics
Event delivery framework and local organizing committee structure
Commercial, media, and legacy planning
The ICF will evaluate submissions based on technical capability, event vision, sustainability considerations, and overall feasibility before selecting the host.
Elevating the Future of SUP
As stand up paddling continues its trajectory as one of the fastest-growing paddle sports globally, the 2027 World Championships are expected to set new benchmarks in participation, performance, and international visibility.
The ICF encourages interested cities and federations to engage early in the process and position themselves as leaders in delivering a next-generation SUP event. For full bidding documentation, requirements, and submission details, visit here.
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