Surf Life Saving GB is proud to be sending Team GB to the Lifesaving World Championships 2026, running from 25 November to 13 December in Port Elizabeth, South Africa, and organised by the International Life Saving Federation.
It’s the culmination of a rigorous year of competition and selection, giving the team the opportunity to represent the UK on the world stage against the best lifesaving athletes from across the globe.
The Youth and Open squads travelling to South Africa were selected earlier this year through national trials, with athletes’ form also assessed across a range of other events throughout the season. These included the 2026 Surf Life Saving GB National Open Pool Championships at Cardiff International Pool, along with three Surf Life Saving GB Surf Series competitions, The Super6, Ocean Perf, and the World Ocean Series UK.
To support the team’s preparation and performance in Port Elizabeth, Surf Life Saving GB is providing funding towards travel, accommodation, training facilities, and team kit. This investment reflects SLSGB’s commitment to Team GB.
This World Championship marks a step on a much bigger journey. Surf Life Saving GB are actively lobbying for lifesaving sport to feature at the Brisbane 2032 Olympic Games, which would mark the sport’s first-ever Olympic appearance. With the Ocean Man, Ocean Woman and Mixed Ocean Relay events being put forward for inclusion. SLSGB is proud to be playing its part in building the athletes who could one day take to an Olympic stage.