2026 Open Baltic Finswimming Championship Set to Welcome International Athletes in Vilnius
The 2026 Open Baltic Finswimming Championship will take place on May 16–17, 2026, in Vilnius, Lithuania, bringing together finswimmers of all ages and performance levels for a major international indoor competition. Organized by the Lithuanian Underwater Federation under CMAS authorization, the event aims to combine high-level competition with an inclusive and athlete-friendly atmosphere .
An Event Open to All Levels
The championship is designed to welcome a broad range of participants, from young swimmers experiencing their first international competition to elite athletes seeking performance benchmarks and preparation for upcoming major championships. The organizers emphasize community, exchange, and development, offering an environment where athletes, coaches, and supporters can connect around a shared passion for finswimming .
Vilnius: A Compact and Welcoming Host City
Vilnius, Lithuania’s capital, provides an ideal setting for an international sporting event. Known for its historic Old Town, vibrant cultural life, and green urban spaces, the city is easily accessible and well connected. Its compact size allows efficient movement between transport hubs, accommodation, and the competition venue, contributing to a comfortable experience for visiting delegations .
The main transport points — Vilnius Airport, railway station, and bus terminal — are located approximately 7 km from the competition venue.
State-of-the-Art Competition Venue
The event will be hosted at the Lazdynai Swimming Pool and Aquatics Centre, a modern Olympic-standard facility officially opened in February 2023. One of the most advanced aquatic centers in the Baltic region, it features a 50-meter Olympic pool with 10 lanes, a water depth of up to 3 meters, and spectator seating for approximately 1,000–1,200 people .
The venue also offers:
- Advanced safety systems, including AI-based drowning prevention technology
- Dedicated training and dry-land areas
- Fitness zones, saunas, and wellness facilities
- Medical rooms, café areas, and modern changing facilities
- Parking spaces with electric vehicle charging stations
These features ensure optimal conditions for both competition and athlete comfort.
Competition Program and Disciplines
The championship program includes a comprehensive range of CMAS-regulated finswimming disciplines for both men and women:
- Surface (SF): 50, 100, 200, 400 m
- Bi-Fins (BF): 50, 100, 200, 400 m
- Apnea (AP): 50 m
- Immersion (IM): 100, 200 m
- Relays:
- 4×50 m BF (Men/Women)
- 4×100 m Surface Mixed
Strict technical regulations apply to immersion events using compressed-air cylinders, including limits on volume, pressure, and mandatory hydrostatic testing, in accordance with CMAS safety standards .
Schedule Overview
- May 15, 2026: Arrival of delegations
- May 16, 2026: First competition day (afternoon session, opening ceremony included)
- May 17, 2026: Second competition day (morning session)
- May 17–18, 2026: Departure of delegations
Award ceremonies will be held throughout the competition, and athletes must be available when called.
Classification and Awards
The championship will feature individual and team classifications. Awards include:
- Medals for the top three finishers in each race and relay
- Best Competitor Cups in each category (based on four best individual performances)
- Team Cups for the top three clubs or teams overall .
Participation, Fees, and Deadlines
Key participation details include:
- Entry fee: €60 per club/team
- Start fee: €35 per athlete (up to four events; additional events €8 each)
- Relay fee: €8 per relay
Important deadlines:
- April 15, 2026: Preliminary registration
- May 1, 2026: Final delegation list and payment deadline
Accommodation is arranged independently by participants, with support and advice available from the local organizing committee.
Fair Play and Regulations
All participants must comply with CMAS competition rules and WADA anti-doping regulations. The organizers and officials disclaim responsibility for accidents or damages occurring before, during, or after the event, in line with standard international competition policies .
FILES
2026 Open Baltic FSW Indoor Championship_Information Bulletin
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