Kölner Ruderverein Wins 91st Stadtachter Race at Cologne Lights 2026

On 1 August 2026, the 91st Stadtachter rowing race was held as part of the Cologne Lights (Kölner Lichter) festivities. Six mixed-gender crews raced over a 2‑kilometre course on a sunny, mild day, with live coverage from a WDR helicopter displayed on a LED wall.

The Cologne Rowing Club (Kölner Ruderverein) of 1877 took an early lead and maintained it, finishing first ahead of teams from Leverkusen, Neuss, Kettwig, Düsseldorf and Bonn. Commentators Benno Kerling and Henning Krautmacher provided background and technical insight throughout the event. After the race, the crew celebrated at the club’s clubhouse, and the traditional “steering lady” was ceremonially tossed into the water in gratitude for her performance.