The 2026 Lifesaving World Championships will now take place in Port Elizabeth – Nelson Mandela Bay, South Africa.
Originally scheduled for Agadir, Morocco, the location change follows notification from the Royal Moroccan Lifesaving Federation that construction of the Olympic swimming pool will not be completed in time.
Set for late November to early December 2026, the new timing offers ideal surf conditions, warm weather, and welcoming waters for athletes from around the world.
We extend our sincere thanks to the Executive Mayor and Councillors of Port Elizabeth – Nelson Mandela Bay for their warm welcome, and to Lifesaving South Africa (LSA) for their swift, decisive leadership in supporting a smooth transition.
Planning continues in close collaboration with LSA and local authorities with full event details, including competition dates and venue information to be announced soon – stay tuned!
Please note: The city agreed that the ILS may use the name “Port Elizabeth – Nelson Mandela Bay” in place of Gqeberha, primarily for phonetic and international recognition reasons.
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