Lifesaving World Championships 2026 – Programme Announcement
Port Elizabeth, Nelson Mandela Bay – 25 November – 13 December 2026
The International Life Saving Federation (ILS) and Lifesaving South Africa (LSA) are excited to announce the next milestone on the journey to the Lifesaving World Championships 2026 (LWC 2026). For the first time in over three decades, the pinnacle event of our sport returns to African soil, hosted in the vibrant city of Port Elizabeth, Nelson Mandela Bay.
Thousands of athletes, coaches, volunteers, and supporters from around the world will gather in Nelson Mandela Bay for a festival of courage, discipline, teamwork, and, above all, lifesaving’s mission to save lives. With between 3,500 and 6,000 athletes expected, LWC 2026 promises to be a spectacular celebration of sport and purpose.
Championship Programme
The full championship programme, including all official dates, is now available. This marks the beginning of a world-class journey to LWC 2026 and gives athletes, coaches, officials, and stakeholders an early opportunity to begin planning for this historic event.
Travel and Accommodation
Lifesaving South Africa has appointed Turners Travel as the trusted travel and destination management partner for LWC 2026. Turners Travel will ensure all travel and accommodation arrangements are smooth and seamless.
Visit www.lifesaving2026.co.za to access approved travel and accommodation packages. All options have been carefully selected as suitable, safe, and affordable, with preferential rates for the lifesaving community. Additional benefits offered by accommodation partners include:
- Free shuttle services throughout the day
- Earlier breakfast times or pre-packed breakfast options where available
- Extra staffing on site
- Dedicated city ambassadors to assist with queries and local advice
Stay Connected – Official Channels Only
"We look forward to hosting the world in Nelson Mandela Bay for this historic championship. It is an opportunity to showcase our beaches, our culture, and the warmth and resilience of our people as we welcome the global lifesaving community,”
“The Lifesaving World Championships is the pinnacle event of our mission to bring together our global family to compete, to share knowledge, and to celebrate the values of lifesaving. We are thrilled to host this event in Africa once again and look forward to an unforgettable experience in Nelson Mandela Bay.”
Winston A. Meyer, President of Lifesaving South Africa
ILS President Graham Ford AM
Stay tuned for more updates as we build towards LWC 2026.
We look forward to welcoming the global lifesaving family to Nelson Mandela Bay from 25 November to 13 December 2026 for a global celebration with purpose.
