Applications are open for World Sailing's 2026 Performance Coach Scholarship, with a 25 June deadline for national authorities to put forward candidates.
The scholarship offers a twelve-month learning pathway built around a four-week residential block at the Weymouth and Portland National Sailing Academy in the United Kingdom, running from 21 September to 17 October 2026. Delivered in partnership with the Andrew Simpson Performance Academy, the programme also includes two online modules, each comprising four sessions, and dedicated project mentoring.
The programme targets coaches operating at national level who are working with youth and adult athletes on the pathway into international competition. Only ten places are available, keeping the cohort small enough to allow personalised instruction and strong peer collaboration.
Fiona Kidd, World Sailing's Head of International Development, said: "As we open the application window for the Performance Coach Scholarship, we are looking for dedicated coaches who are ready to elevate their skills and guide their nations' sailors onto the international stage. Thanks to the generous funding provided by Olympic Solidarity, we are able to offer a world-class, twelve-month learning pathway that bridges elite practical residency with rigorous online academic modules."
Kidd added that competition for the ten places "will undoubtedly be fierce", and urged all Member National Authorities to engage early with their National Olympic Committees to secure what she called "this career-defining opportunity for their top coaches".
Member National Authorities must first have their candidates selected by World Sailing, then work with their respective National Olympic Committees to complete the formal Olympic Solidarity application. Participation is subject to visa approvals and NOC support for individual travel costs.
Successful candidates will be confirmed on or before 3 July.
