FD Worlds 2026 Officially Opened in Kiel

The Flying Dutchman World Championship 2026 was officially opened yesterday in Kiel-Schilksee.

The ceremony began with a parade of nations, led by the energetic rhythms of the Flensburg percussion group Policia do Samba. Sailors representing the participating countries marched together to the Sailing Arena.

The ceremony was hosted by Andy Kauffmann, with welcoming speeches from:

Gerwin Stöcken, Mayor and Councillor for Social Affairs, Housing, Health and Sport;
Christian Knop, Board Member of Kieler Yacht-Club;
IFDCO President Meike Greten;
and young sailor Ron Christ, who is competing in his first FD World Championship.

After the ceremony, food and drinks were served to the sailors, giving the international FD fleet its first opportunity to meet and enjoy the atmosphere of Kieler Woche together.

The championship is officially underway. Now it is time to go racing!