default title

The International Canoe Federation has embarked on a significant transformation, now operating under the new identity of Paddle Worldwide. This strategic shift aims to unify the global paddlesport community and inspire broader participation across all levels, from novice enthusiasts to elite competitors. The rebranding is the culmination of the "Fit for Future" strategy, designed to prepare the organization for its next century of leadership and development within the sport.

Paddle Worldwide: A New Era for Paddlesport

In a landmark announcement, the International Canoe Federation, a leading entity in paddlesports since 1924, revealed its metamorphosis into Paddle Worldwide. This rebranding, effective July 28, 2026, signals a pivotal moment for the sport, moving beyond mere governance of international competitions to actively cultivate a global community. The new identity is more than a name change; it represents a comprehensive vision to engage more individuals in paddlesports, fostering a lifelong connection with aquatic activities. Thomas Konietzko, the President of Paddle Worldwide, articulated this ambition, stating, "Every journey begins with a first paddle. Through Paddle Worldwide, we want to help more people take that first stroke, creating a stronger, more connected global community and ensuring our sport continues to grow for generations to come."

Paddle Worldwide is built upon five core principles: Belong, Progress, Open, Together, and Water. These guiding tenets emphasize inclusivity, continuous improvement, accessibility, collaboration, and the fundamental connection to natural aquatic environments. The organization envisions a future where continental associations, national federations, clubs, and event organizers seamlessly integrate under this shared global framework, while retaining the flexibility to celebrate their unique local cultures and priorities. The new brand incorporates a distinctive symbol and wordmark, utilizing an orange and black color palette inspired by the natural world of paddlesports, symbolizing both the energy of the sport and the critical elements of safety and visibility on the water. Richard Pettit, Secretary General of Paddle Worldwide, highlighted the collaborative nature of this initiative: "This is not about replacing what already exists or asking everyone to communicate in the same way. It is about creating stronger connections, sharing ideas and best practice, developing common resources and maximising opportunities across our global community." This collaborative approach aims to achieve greater collective impact than individual efforts could alone, reinforcing the idea that water serves as a universal connector for all paddlers, regardless of their discipline or motivation for engaging with the sport.

The transformation to Paddle Worldwide signifies a forward-looking approach, recognizing that the growth and vitality of paddlesport hinge on inspiring new generations and strengthening existing communities. By providing a unified platform and fostering collaboration, the organization hopes to unlock the immense potential of paddlesports to bring joy, health, and adventure to countless lives globally.