2025 ILCA World Championships set sail at Qingdao Olympic Sailing Center
chinadaily.com.cn| Updated: May 12, 2025
From May 10 to 17, the Qingdao Olympic Sailing Center in Shinan district is hosting the 2025 ILCA6 and ILCA7 World Championships—an Olympic-class international sailing event in the run-up to the 2028 Los Angeles Games. This marks China's first time hosting this prestigious world championship.
Organized by the ILCA International Association and key national sports bodies, the event has attracted 237 elite sailors from 49 countries and regions, including top-ranked athletes from the US, UK, Australia, and China. Over half of the world's top 10 female ILCA6 sailors and all top five male ILCA7 sailors will compete in qualification rounds from May 12 to 14 and finals from May 15 to 17.
The championships feature high-level international judge teams, digital race tracking, and electronic buoy trials, enhancing professionalism and tech integration. At the same time, a vibrant ''Sailing Village'' at the Olympic Sailing Center offers athlete services, media support, and public engagement areas.
To expand public access, the event will be broadcast live online, with Olympic gold medalist Xu Lijia as guest commentator. In addition, in-person viewing sport such as Lovers Dam and Xiaomai Island will welcome locals and tourists.
Blending sports, culture, and sustainability, the event promotes Qingdao's maritime spirit while showcasing the city's hospitality and global vision through activities like eco-sailing campaigns and a bustling event marketplace.