ICF applauds Queensland's ambitious bid for the 2030 World Paddle Games, promising a significant economic boost

Queensland's World Paddle Games Bid Gains ICF Support

The International Canoe Federation (ICF) has welcomed Queensland's formal bid to host the inaugural World Paddle Games in 2030. This landmark event is projected to inject over AUD$200 million into the state's economy.

The proposed festival would unite nearly 6,000 athletes and consolidate ten ICF World Championships under one banner. This reflects the ambitious scale and long-term vision the ICF hoped to inspire.

The Games represent a transformative moment, combining Olympic and Paralympic disciplines (Canoe Sprint, Slalom, Kayak Cross, Paracanoe) with other major paddle sports like Canoe Marathon, Ocean Racing, and Stand Up Paddling (SUP).

Strategic Alignment and Legacy

A key strength of Queensland's proposal is its strong alignment with the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games. Activating crucial Brisbane 2032 infrastructure, such as the Redland Whitewater Centre, two years prior, exemplifies the legacy-focused planning the ICF seeks. Combining Gold Coast's coastal and flatwater venues with the Redland facility creates a unique multi-venue festival, optimizing accessibility, fan engagement, and operational efficiency.

Beyond elite sport, the World Paddle Games aims to drive tourism, participation, sustainability, and community activation, positioning the host region as a global paddle sport destination. Accelerating investment and innovation. Paddle Australia and its funding partners show confidence, with government-level discussions progressing. The bid undergoes detailed ICF review; a decision is expected at the ICF Board Meeting on July 25, prior to the ICF Congress in Oklahoma City on July 25–26, 2026.

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