Gualeguaychú hosts 2026 ICF Canoe Marathon World Championships

The 2026 ICF Canoe Marathon World Championships concluded in Gualeguaychú, Argentina, marking the first time the event was held in South America. The competition featured over 700 elite and master paddlers from 40 countries competing on the Gualeguaychú River.

Spain emerged as a dominant force, winning the Nations Cup with 236 points and securing eight total medals, including four golds. Notable Spanish victories included the K2 Senior women's title won by Tania Fernández and Tania Álvarez. Argentina finished third in the Nations Cup standings.

Local athletes achieved significant results, with Agustín Ratto and Juan Ignacio Cáceres earning a silver medal in the K2 Senior category. However, the event also saw controversy when Argentine paddler Franco Balboa was disqualified from the K1 Senior final following a collision with Norwegian athlete Amund Vold, a decision that drew significant protest from local spectators.

The championship's closing ceremony included the official handover of the hosting duties to Denmark for the 2027 edition. Local authorities highlighted the event's positive socioeconomic impact on the region's tourism, hospitality, and commercial sectors.