Entries Open for the 2026 World Rowing Virtual Indoor Championships

Entries for the 2026 World Rowing Virtual Indoor Championships are now open, with the entry deadline set for February 10. This event is an opportunity for athletes around the world to compete in a World Rowing–sanctioned championship, without the need to travel! 

The Championships are held entirely online, allowing competitors to race from their own training environments while competing against athletes globally. 

“While the event is virtual, the training and the competition is real. In a time when so much is online and passive, it can be so rewarding to put consistent effort into doing something and to see what happens when you really go for it,” says Elizabeth Gilmore, who won last year’s Women’s 40-44 race. “When you're on the starting line, you may be oceans away from your competitors, but your paths towards that moment looked similar—the lactate and the sweat and the fatigue. And those shared experiences can bring us together as a community.” 

Elizabeth Gilmore competing at the 2023 World Rowing Indoor Championships in Canada

The event includes categories across open, para, as well as age and weight groups. There are three distinct race options for individuals: a 1-minute sprint, 1000m and 5000m races, offering options for all athlete types. There are also two- and four- person relay races over 1000m and 5000m respectively. 

“The World Rowing Virtual Indoor Championships is one of the most unique events in rowing. It doesn’t matter whether you’re an Olympic athlete, a club rower, or someone who just discovered rowing through indoor training—everyone races on the same stage, under the same rules, with the same equipment. That’s incredibly powerful,” says Joel Naukkarinen from Finland, who competed in a previous edition and is seeking to set the 1000m World Record at the event. 

While the races take place remotely, the event retains the status of a World Rowing championship. Performances are officially recognised, and rankings contribute to the event’s competitive record. 

“For me, it’s a perfect opportunity to test myself at the highest level while racing from my own training environment,” says Joel. “The virtual format removes all barriers—no travel, no logistics, just you, the machine and the clock. If you love rowing and enjoy a real challenge, this is the event to be part of.” 

Athletes wishing to take part must complete their registration by February 10. Full event details, including race formats, equipment requirements, and eligibility criteria, are available on the World Rowing website. 

Looking to compete against the best in person? Later in 2026, there are plans for an in-person World Rowing Indoor Championship that will take place over the more traditional 2000m and 500m distances. Stay tuned for more details!