More people. More places. More paddlesport.
The move to Paddle Worldwide marks the next evolution of the organisation, which has led the global development of paddlesport since 1924.
The International Canoe Federation has relaunched as Paddle Worldwide, a shared identity designed to inspire a global movement for paddlesport.
The move marks the next evolution of the organisation, which has led the global development of paddlesport since 1924.
Building on more than a century of leadership, Paddle Worldwide reflects a broader ambition: to inspire more people, in more places, to discover, enjoy and remain connected to paddlesport throughout their lives.
From a first paddle stroke to the Olympic podium, Paddle Worldwide represents every stage of the journey. It brings together participation, clubs, coaches, volunteers, events and elite sport under one global identity, recognising that every champion began with a first experience on the water and every lifelong paddler started with someone who inspired them to take that first stroke.
At its heart, Paddle Worldwide is built on connection between people and water, communities and clubs, nations and continents and the 10 disciplines that together make paddlesport unique.
The name captures the essence of the sport: no matter the discipline, the craft or the reason for taking to the water, the Paddle is the one element every paddler shares. Combined with Worldwide, it reflects a sport that transcends borders, cultures and generations.
ICF President Thomas Konietzko said: “Paddle Worldwide is much more than a new identity. It is the next evolution of our organisation and a clear statement of our ambition for the future of paddlesport.
“Our responsibility extends beyond governing international competition. We want to inspire more people to experience our sport, strengthen our clubs and communities, and provide a home for everyone who shares a passion for life on the water, from recreational paddlers to Olympic and Paralympic champions.
From a first paddle stroke to the Olympic podium, Paddle Worldwide represents every stage of the journey.
From a first paddle stroke to the Olympic podium, Paddle Worldwide represents every stage of the journey.
“Every journey begins with a first paddle. Through Paddle Worldwide we want to help more people take that first stroke, creating a stronger, more connected global community and ensuring our sport continues to grow for generations to come.”
The identity is guided by five brand principles: Belong, Progress, Open, Together and Water, which shape its ambition to create a welcoming, inclusive and future-focused global community.
The relaunch marks the culmination of the Fit for Future strategy, following a comprehensive review to ensure the organisation is equipped to lead paddlesport into its next century.
Rather than sitting above the sport, Paddle Worldwide has been designed as an open platform that Continental Associations, National Federations, clubs and event organisers can adopt and adapt, creating a shared global identity while celebrating local communities and cultures.
The identity combines a distinctive symbol and wordmark for a bold, recognisable presence across every discipline and level of the sport. Its colour palette, led by orange and black, is inspired by the natural environment that defines paddlesport, reflecting both the energy of the sport and the safety, visibility and confidence that underpin every experience on the water.
ICF Secretary General Richard Pettit said: “Paddle Worldwide provides a shared platform for the future of our sport. It creates a global framework that connects continental associations, national federations, clubs, event organisers and participants, while giving each the flexibility to reflect their own culture, priorities and identity.
“This is not about replacing what already exists or asking everyone to communicate in the same way. It is about creating stronger connections, sharing ideas and best practice, developing common resources and maximising opportunities across our global community. By working within a shared framework, we can achieve far more together than we can individually.
“Water connects us all. Whether you paddle for recreation, health, adventure, competition or Olympic and Paralympic success, Paddle Worldwide celebrates that shared connection. Our ambition is simple: to inspire more people, in more places, to discover the lifelong benefits of paddlesport.”
More than a new identity, Paddle Worldwide is a movement built around a simple ambition: More people. More places. More paddlesport.