Olympic-level sailing meets world-class organisation in Denmark’s “City of Sails”
The iQFOiL World Championships 2025 in Aarhus, Denmark, drew to a close with resounding praise from athletes, teams, and international organisers. Hosted at the Aarhus International Sailing Centre, the event welcomed 200 elite windsurfers from 39 nations – and delivered high-speed, high-drama racing in world-class style, despite a few weather-related challenges.
The grand finale on Aarhus Bay featured top-tier competition and thrilling conditions, ultimately crowning Great Britain’s Emma Wilson and Andy Brown as new world champions.
Gonzalo Costa Hoevel, iQFOiL International Class Manager, was clear:
“Aarhus provided the ideal setting for high-quality competition, and we’re grateful to the International Sailing Center for their excellent support and hospitality. It was great to begin this new cycle with such a successful World Championship thanks to the hard work and attention to details of everyone here. We look forward to coming back here for another iQFOiL event”
Built for Success – On and Off the Water
The event’s success is rooted in more than just strong winds and strong performances. Since its establishment for the 2018 Sailing World Championships, the Aarhus International Sailing Centre has embodied the power of collaboration between local sailing clubs, the city, and national partners.
“Another Olympic-class championship has been delivered with excellence in Aarhus. Athletes and team leaders have expressed their admiration for the facilities and organisation – and many have said they are eager to return. Despite light wind on some days, this was an unqualified success,” said Lars Lundov, CEO of Sport Event Denmark. “This would not have been possible without our excellent partners – Aarhus Events, the Danish Sailing Association, our local clubs, and our many dedicated volunteers.”
Aarhus: Ready to Host Again
Aarhus may be catching its breath after a busy championship week, but preparations are already underway for next summer’s major event: the ILCA 4 and 6 Youth World Championships, which will bring around 350 aspiring Olympic sailors to the city.
“Hosting a World Championship in an Olympic class is always a privilege,” said Charlotte Kirk Elkjær, Head of Events at Aarhus Events. “It confirms the impact of our long-term strategy to invest in the right infrastructure. Our unique urban-blue arena creates the ideal conditions for elite-level sailing, just minutes from the city centre – and that continues to attract the global sailing community.”
Jon Koch Hansen, Director of Aarhus International Sailing Centre, echoed the sentiment:
“We are proud to have hosted the iQFOiL World Championships and to deliver another top-quality event. Our sincere thanks go to our partners and sponsors – Sport Event Denmark and the City of Aarhus– and especially to our many volunteers both on land and at sea. Their passion and professionalism make events at this level possible.”
iQFOiL World Championships 2025 – Podium Results:
Men
Gold: Andy Brown (GBR 360)
Silver: Tom Arnoux (FRA 152)
Bronze: Nicoló Renna (ITA 150)
Women
Gold: Emma Wilson (GBR 7)
Silver: Tamar Steinberg (ISR 216)
Bronze Theresa Steinlein (GER 799)
Photos: Sailing Energy: https://iqfoilclass.photoshelter.com/gallery-collection/WORLD-CHAMPIONSHIP-AARHUS/C0000tkFiBS4bfSQ
Results: https://2025iqworldsaarhus.sailti.com/en/default/races/race-resultsall
