2026 ICF SUP Junior International Cup

Over the years, we’ve made it a point to shine a light on the next generation of stand-up paddlers, following their journeys as they grow from promising juniors into athletes ready to challenge the world’s best. Few things are more inspiring than watching young SUP athletes make the leap from the junior ranks to the […]

The future of stand-up paddling took centre stage in Bascov, Romania, as the first-ever International Canoe Federation (ICF) event dedicated exclusively to junior SUP athletes welcomed the world’s top U14, U16 and U18 racers. More than just another competition, the inaugural 2026 ICF SUP Junior International Cup marked a groundbreaking step in the sport’s development, […]

The upcoming 2026 ICF SUP Junior International Cup, taking place in Bascov, Romania, from 19 – 21 June, promises to be one of the most prominent showcases of young international SUP talent. Hosted at the state-of-the-art Budeasa Regatta Course – one of the best-equipped canoeing venues in Eastern Europe – the stage is set for […]

At just 17, Matei Barbu is already the ICF Junior World SUP Champion and Vice World Champion in sprints (2024 Gold and 2025 Silver), representing the new generation of European paddlers emerging from a rapidly growing Eastern European scene alongside athletes from Poland, the Czech Republic, Hungary, Slovakia and beyond. Originally from Constanța, Romania, Matei […]