Only two weeks after the first Rowing World Cup of the season, the second and final World Cup before the summer arrives: the LUCERNE REGATTA. Once again, this inclusive rowing World Cup attracts a world-class field of athletes, with 44 nations and nearly 600 athletes competing in 18 boat classes. In addition to the thrilling competition, spectators can look forward to exciting new activities beyond the races.
As is typical in the post-Olympic year, rowing often brings innovations and changes, and this year will be no exception. Several changes in the competition format make the event even more exciting. “The situation is incredibly exciting, and we can look forward to many spectacular races,” says Mario Gyr, President of the LUCERNE REGATTA Association.
This year, the sport of rowing introduces several key changes, including a new progression system that makes the heats on Friday significantly more exciting. Some boat classes have been removed, while new ones have been added. The lightweight categories will no longer be part of the Olympic program, affecting the World Cup series. A Mixed Eight is being tested this year, allowing only athletes who have already competed in another boat class. This is a first in rowing.
After three national regattas in Switzerland, the top six Mixed U17 Quadruple Sculls will compete for the Talents Cup Final on Saturday, June 28 at 12:10 PM. This exciting new concept allows young athletes to race on the world-class stage at Rotsee.
The first international races of the year have shown that Swiss Rowing has several medal contenders even in the post-Olympic year. The Men’s Double Scull with Kai Schätzle from Lucerne and Raphaël Ahumada from Morges, who recently won a World Cup in Varese, are among the favorites. Patrick Brunner and Jonah Plock won bronze in the Men’s Coxless Pair. Additionally, Swiss Rowing is sending a youth group of U23 athletes to gain their first World Cup experience at the Rotsee.
Note: The 11 retired swiss athletes will be honored on Sunday, June 29 at 10:45 AM, before the A-Finals.
This year’s LUCERNE REGATTA will also feature Paralympic boat classes. Athletes from 9 nations will compete in three Paralympic events. Swiss para-rower Claire Ghiringhelli, who recently won a bronze medal at the European Championships, will also compete.
Note: The Para-Finals will take place on Saturday at 12:55 PM and Sunday at 11:05 AM.
With the upcoming Rowing World Championships in Lucerne in 2027, the program at the Rotsee has been significantly expanded. The family-friendly event now features new catering options, face painting for children, and even a live concert by Noah Parks and his band, inviting not only rowing fans but also non-fans to experience the unique Rotsee atmosphere.
Note: Noah Parks’ live concert will take place on Sunday at 2:00 PM after the finals. Entry to the Rotsee is free.
Olympic medalists Roman Röösli and Andrin Gulich, both retired, will race against each other for the first time. On Saturday, June 28, during the Lucerne City Festival, they will race on rowing ergometers over 250 meters in the heart of Lucerne’s Old Town at Kapellplatz.
Note: The Roman Röösli vs Andrin Gulich “duel” can be watched live at Kapellplatz. Entry is free.
