Organization

The WISSA World Championship

The World Championship stands as the pinnacle event in WISSA’s calendar. Furthermore, it brings together ice and snow sailors worldwide—whether you’re just beginning your journey or competing at the highest level. As a result, athletes compete across diverse formats on some of the world’s most spectacular frozen lakes and ice terrains. Welcome to all skill levels: from those taking their first steps on ice to experienced champions. These iconic venues showcase the beauty and challenge of winter sailing at its finest.

Historically, WISSA has rotated its World Championship between Europe and North America, alternating venues roughly each year. However, recent global circumstances have affected this pattern, and WISSA continues working with organizers across both continents to restore the traditional rotation and ensure regular championships worldwide.

While formally known as the Ice and Snow Sailing World Championships (ISSWC), the event is commonly referred to simply as WISSA, reflecting the organization’s central role in the sport.

Competition Formats:

Course Race 

The foundation of WISSA competition since our founding. This discipline remains the primary format and holds top priority in our racing calendar. Strategically, course racing is closest to traditional open water sailing, making it the most accessible format for sailors transitioning from summer racing. Interestingly, ice racing can be simpler in some ways—there’s no risk of capsizing or falling into water. However, uneven ice and snow conditions create their own challenges, requiring athletes to adapt to variable terrain and surface conditions. Competitors navigate a marked course on frozen water, testing navigation skills, tactical decisions, and sustained performance. Today, course racing continues to define excellence in ice and snow sailing worldwide.

Short Track Slalom –  A high-energy format exclusive to STS sleds and wings. This discipline delivers spectacle and entertainment as athletes navigate tight courses with narrow turning radiuses, creating dynamic visual excitement for spectators. Notably, both STS sleds and wings demonstrate exceptional maneuverability, racing around tight marker courses in confined spaces. Furthermore, athletes must skillfully avoid collisions with competitors while maintaining precision through narrow turns. As a result, this format showcases technical expertise and superior boat handling. Therefore, short track slalom has become increasingly popular with audiences seeking thrilling ice racing action.

GPS Speed – A straightforward format where conditions are equal for all competitors. While speed trials may not always produce the highest overall season rankings, they offer pure performance comparison in optimal circumstances. This discipline appeals to sailors seeking direct, head-to-head competition in ideal racing conditions.

Marathon – A reserve format held when other competitions have produced sufficient seasonal results. Marathon races test endurance and long-distance performance, adding diversity to WISSA’s competitive calendar. These events showcase the stamina and strategy required for extended ice sailing challenges.

Freestyle – An exhibition format exclusively for kite sailors, offering spectacular entertainment value. Freestyle sailing highlights creative technique and artistic performance on ice, requiring exceptional skill and precision from performers. Meanwhile, this format provides visual excitement for spectators and allows athletes to demonstrate their mastery in innovative and dynamic ways. Furthermore, freestyle demands advanced control and technical expertise. Freestyle events are organized when conditions and scheduling permit.