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Olympic-class sailing world championships return to New Zealand for the first time in nearly a decade with Auckland hosting two stages in 2028.
Yachting New Zealand chief executive Steve Armitage confirmed stages of the women’s ILCA 6 and men’s ILCA 7 World Championship will be held in the City ofSails in January and February of 2028.
Takapuna Boating Club on Auckland’s North Shore will host both regattas, with the men’s event held from January 29 to February 5 of that year and the women’s from February 11 to 18.
The regattas are expected to play a key role in helping sailors prepare and be selected for the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles.
“It is part of Yachting New Zealand’s long-term strategic priorities to bring world-class sailing events back to the country, and we are delighted that Auckland will host the ILCA 6 and ILCA 7 World Championship,” Armitage said.
“We have some of the best sailing waters and ILCA sailors in the world, along with the most dedicated yacht clubs, volunteers and sailing communities anywhere.
Olympic-class sailing returns to Auckland in 2028. Photo / World Sailing
“We know this will be a successful world championship and we encourage Kiwis to embrace it.”
The Government has helped to support the championship returning to Aotearoa through the Major Events Fund, with Tourism and Hospitality Minister Louise Upston having claimed it will provide an economic boost for Auckland.
“Hosting a world-class sporting event like the ILCA World Championship will boost local businesses and further strengthen New Zealand’s reputation as a premier destination for elite sport,” she said.
Auckland Mayor Wayne Brown said the city hosting the event “just made sense”.
“It’s exciting to see the return of top-tier Olympic sailing to Auckland, with the world’s best ILCA sailors competing here at a key point in Olympic qualification,” Brown said.
“That creates a rare chance for local fans, clubs and young sailors to experience elite racing up close while welcoming visitors from around the globe.
“Hosting the championship across Takapuna and Torbay will put Auckland firmly in the international spotlight, showcasing what we offer both on and off the water.”
Meanwhile, Takapuna Boating Club commodore Wendy Baker described hosting the world championship as a landmark moment for the club and ILCA president Mark Lyttle said it was time the events returned to New Zealand’s shores.
