With just one year remaining until the world’s premier lifesaving athletes gather in South Africa, anticipation is building for the Lifesaving World Championships 2026, taking place from 25 November – 13 December 2026 in Nelson Mandela Bay.

The event will bring together thousands of competitors, officials, and supporters from across the globe, showcasing the very best of lifesaving sport while celebrating values of community, safety, and international friendship.

Nelson Mandela Bay, centred on the vibrant coastal hub of Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth), is renowned for its golden beaches, rich cultural heritage, and warm hospitality. Known as the “Friendly City,” it offers the perfect backdrop for lifesaving’s flagship event.

Athletes will compete across two world-class venues: King’s Beach, a 1.6-kilometre stretch of golden sand from the harbour wall to Humewood, ideal for surf and beach racing, and the Newton Park Swimming Pool (Mandela Bay Aquatic Centre), a 50-metre Olympic-standard indoor facility that hosted the 2025 South Africa National Swimming Championships and has recently been upgraded to meet World Aquatics standards.

Together, these venues will host a full programme of pool, ocean, beach, and IRB racing events, ensuring thrilling competition for athletes and spectators alike.

The International Lifesaving Federation, together with Lifesaving South Africa and local organisers, is working tirelessly to deliver a world‑class event. With one year to go, preparations are well underway, and excitement is mounting across the lifesaving community.

As the countdown begins, lifesaving clubs, athletes, and supporters worldwide are encouraged to mark their calendars and prepare to be part of this extraordinary event.

For travel and accommodation packages, visit lifesaving2026.com.