ICF ready to start paddle sport evolution after launching new strategy

Building on the achievements made under Fit for Future 2022-2024, this refined strategic plan has been designed to ensure the long-term success and growth of paddle sport and the federation. 

The ICF, celebrating its 100th anniversary this year, is looking to transition into the next exciting chapter in its long history with a bold evolutionary vision. 

Over the next two years, the ICF will aim to implement a plan with five focus areas culminating in the relaunch of the federation under the new name of Paddle Worldwide at its next Congress in 2026.

The ICF will take these next steps with continuity in leadership after President Thomas Konietzko and Vice Presidents Cecilia Farias, Lluis Rabaneda i Caselles and Luciano Buonfiglio were re-elected at the Congress in Antalya, giving them all new four-year terms. 

Since the endorsement of the first phase of the Fit for Future strategy in November 2022, the ICF has overseen a successful Paris 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games – which included the introduction of the new event of kayak cross – strengthened its global presence, advanced its governance, developed strong partnerships, expanded its digital footprint and delivered financial growth.

This strategy is underpinned by eight pillars that continue to serve as the foundation of the ICF’s approach. 

Under Fit for Future Evolution, six strategic steps have been identified to elevate the global standing of paddle sport and the federation. 

The priorities include increasing administrative support, strengthening governance and decision-making, advancing our development model, evolving our event delivery and delivering on digital. 

As part of this process, a governance reform working group will be established to develop a clear strategy to modernise the ICF’s governance structure, statutes and rules with a comprehensive proposal due to be presented at the 2026 Congress 

“To stay at the forefront of change, we must embrace continuous evolution,” said Mr Konietzko. 

“Technological advancements, societal shifts, and evolving fan expectations are reshaping the sporting landscape, and we must adapt swiftly.  

“A key factor in our ability to evolve, both on and off the water, is our organisational structure— this must also move with the times.  

“With this in mind, we are committed to presenting comprehensive organisational reforms ahead of the 2026 Congress. 

“This proactive approach will ensure that paddle sports continue to grow, thrive, and lead on the global stage.” 

The sixth and final step is the rebranding and repositioning of the ICF as Paddle Worldwide that will be launched at the 2026 Congress. 

The new name was approved by the ICF Board in April before being endorsed at the Congress along with the Fit for Future Evolution strategy in Antalya. 

“A new brand and new name will showcase the vision that we have for further popularising paddle sports across the globe,” said ICF Secretary General Richard Pettit. 

"Recognising the need to represent every paddle sport discipline and to embrace not only the competitive aspects of our sport but also its deep connection with nature, waterway preservation and expanding opportunities for all. 

“We understand that rebranding the federation is a lot more than simply changing the name.  

“We want to give ourselves the right amount of time to reshape our federation. 

“That’s why we will undergo this comprehensive organisational review and make sure we are fit for every future generation to embrace and enjoy our sport.  

“As part of this journey, we will hold the 2025 Paddle Sport Summit where we will bring our leadership together with all the disciplines, all committees and all stakeholders that can impact change for the future of paddle sport. 

“We look forward to proudly and confidently relaunching our federation under the new name Paddle Worldwide in 2026.”