Held at Clube Naval de Portimão, the event is expected to bring together 199 competitors from 42 countries for eight days of racing along Portugal’s southern coast.

Known for its Atlantic conditions, Portimão has become an increasingly popular destination for high-level sailing competitions. Strong winds, open-water swells, and constantly changing currents create demanding race conditions that test both speed and tactical decision-making.

The iQFOiL class, which uses hydrofoil boards that lift riders above the water at high speeds, has become one of the fastest-growing and most visually striking disciplines in competitive sailing. The format made its Olympic debut at the Paris 2024 Games and continues to attract elite athletes from across Europe.

Organisers say the combination of offshore conditions and variable wind patterns off the Algarve coast should make for highly competitive racing throughout the week.

The championship will feature daily races and medal series events, with competitors battling for European titles in one of the sport’s most physically demanding categories.