Cyclone Harry Puts ICF SUP World Championships 2026 in Sicily Under Review
The planned ICF Stand Up Paddling World Championships 2026, scheduled for 14–18 October in Sicily, have been thrown into uncertainty following severe storm damage caused by Cyclone Harry.
The powerful Mediterranean storm hit eastern Sicily, including the Taormina and Giardini Naxos area, with exceptional force. Heavy rainfall, coastal flooding, extreme wave action and landslides caused widespread damage to infrastructure, coastal roads, promenades and public utilities. Several tourist and transport hubs along the Ionian coast were affected, prompting Italian authorities to declare a state of emergency in parts of the region.
In response, the International Canoe Federation (ICF) has issued an official communication to National Federations, confirming that the situation now qualifies as a force majeure event.
“We have been informed of a challenging situation concerning the ICF Stand Up Paddling World Championships in Sicily, scheduled for 14–18 October 2026, following damages caused by Cyclone Harry,” the ICF stated.
“The ICF is currently working closely with the Italian Federation to assess the situation and to explore alternative options. At this stage, no final decisions have been taken.”
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The federation emphasized that all possibilities remain open, including potential adjustments to the venue or broader event planning, and that further updates will be communicated as soon as more information becomes available. The current status will also be clearly reflected on the official event webpage.
For now, athletes, teams and national federations are advised to monitor official ICF communications closely, as the long-term impact of the storm damage on the championships is still being evaluated.
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