Six days of world-class racing, 186 athletes representing 41 nations and a spectacular final day in Weymouth brought the 2026 Musto iQFOiL World Championship to a memorable conclusion.

Hosted at the Weymouth and Portland National Sailing Academy, the championship showcased the full range of conditions that have made the venue one of the world’s most respected sailing destinations. 

The best Olympic windsurfers faced everything from light and unpredictable winds to strong westerlies and challenging chop, competing across Upwind Sprint, Sprint Slalom and Course Racing formats.

The competition concluded with a fast and decisive Medal Series in classic Weymouth conditions. Tamar Steinberg of Israel completed a dominant week to win the women’s world title, while the Netherlands’ Luuc van Opzeeland delivered victory when it mattered most to become men’s world champion. Both athletes completed a European and World Championship double in 2026.

Islay Watson led the British challenge on home waters, qualifying sixth for the women’s Medal Series before finishing ninth overall. Reigning world champion Emma Wilson placed 16th, while Finn Hawkins was the highest-placed British man in 12th, narrowly missing the top-ten cut for the Medal Series. 

Beyond the racing, the championship created an important connection between elite sailing and the local community. The final-day Fan Zone at Weymouth Pavilion brought spectators closer to the action through live coverage, athlete appearances, entertainment and the medal ceremony.

Visitors were also able to experience sailing for themselves, with free windsurfing, dinghy sailing, keelboat sailing and accessible boating sessions delivered by qualified RYA instructors.

The week demonstrated the UK’s ability to stage major international sailing events while using elite competition to inspire participation and introduce new audiences to the sport.

Niall McLeod, Musto iQFOiL World Championship Event Director, said, “The championship has been a tremendous success, both on the water and in the connection it has created with Weymouth, Portland and the wider community.

“Across six days, the venue delivered an outstanding test for the world’s best windsurfers, while the Fan Zone gave local people the opportunity to experience the excitement of iQFOiL and discover more about sailing and watersports.

“Delivering an event of this scale takes an enormous collective effort. I would like to thank the athletes, officials, volunteers, staff, partners and local organisations whose commitment helped make this such a memorable championship.”