Cart 0
European Aquatics is proud to announce the launch of the Masters Open Water Swimming Tour, an exciting new series that will debut in 2026 and provide masters swimmers with a dedicated international circuit. The Tour will consist of three stages across the season, with the final leg incorporated into the European Aquatics Masters Championships, creating a unique opportunity for athletes to compete within the atmosphere of Europe’s leading aquatic events.
The primary aim of the initiative is to promote aquatic sport alongside tourism, healthy lifestyles and social engagement, while encouraging greater participation among individual swimmers, clubs and national federations. By bringing masters competitions together with established European Aquatics events, the Tour seeks to create a genuine festival of aquatics, uniting different generations and disciplines in vibrant host venues.
The opening leg will take place on 19 April in Protaras, Cyprus, featuring a 3 km race held during the first leg of the European Aquatics Open Water Swimming Cup. The second stage is scheduled for 24 or 25 July in Sukoró, Hungary, alongside the European Aquatics Junior Open Water Swimming Championships. The Tour will conclude on 28 August in Šamorín, Slovakia, where the final race will be organised as part of the European Aquatics Masters Championships.
The first two stages will follow the rules and conditions outlined in their respective event bulletins, while the concluding leg will be conducted under the regulations of the European Aquatics Masters Championships. Participation in all three competitions will be mandatory for swimmers wishing to be included in the final Tour ranking, details of which will be published separately together with full registration and payment information for each event.
Medals will be awarded after every race, and additional local prizes may also be offered. The overall Tour will recognise the top three men and top three women across all age categories, with contributions totalling EUR 6,500 to support future participation. The winner will receive travel support, five nights of accommodation and an entry fee contribution, the runner-up will be awarded five nights of accommodation and an entry fee, while the third-placed athlete will receive three nights of accommodation and an entry fee.
With its blend of competition, community and discovery, the European Aquatics Masters Open Water Swimming Tour represents a major step forward for masters sport, offering swimmers new goals, inspiring destinations and the chance to be part of a continent-wide celebration of open water swimming.
The Information Bulletin will be published on February 17 and will include all relevant details. Registration will open on February 18.
Stephen Stanley for European Aquatics
