As you may well know, Medemblik has a special place in the Contender history. It was in 1968 on the IJsselmeer that the Contender prototype convincingly won the selection for a new international sailing class. The class developed from there to become the ultimate single hander we all know and love. Since that day, many great international Contender events have been held in Medemblik, most recently the World Championship in 2015.

It seemed all too fitting that, when a venue had to be chosen for the 50th Contender World Championship in 2020, Medemblik would be the place. Unfortunately, due to the Covid pandemic, the 2020 championship had to be cancelled. When international sailing resumed major class events were scheduled in a lot of beautiful places around the world and in Europe. Now, in 2026, we are happy to have the opportunity to host the Contender World Championship once again in Medemblik!
In 2026, the world’s best Contendersailors will come together in Medemblik for the Pre-Worlds and World Championship.
A legendary venue, challenging conditions and true championship racing await.

Registration is now open. This is your chance to prepare, compete and push your limits on the world stage.