Azerbaijan is planning to establish a new whitewater course as part of its drive to develop paddle sport across the country.
The Azerbaijan Canoe and Rowing Federation (AKAF) is set to present its exciting plans to create a world-class Canoe Slalom stadium by the end of 2027 when the International Canoe Federation’s Board of Directors arrive in Baku in March.
ICF President Thomas Konietzko met with Azerbaijan President Ilham Aliyev in November 2024 when the decision was taken to consider the construction of a slalom course.
Since then, extensive work has been done on the project by the AKAF with support from the ICF.
The international-standard venue is expected to be built in Baku with the aim to be completed by the end of next year.
“Azerbaijan Canoe and Rowing Federation is a member of the International Canoe Federation and our goal is to develop all types of canoeing sports in Azerbaijan, including slalom,” said AKAF General Secretary Farhad Aliyev.
“Therefore, we are in favour of creating a slalom stadium in Baku.
“We are currently discussing the selection of the most suitable among the potential places where the stadium can be built.
“Slalom is an Olympic sport.
“Our goal as a federation is to attract teenagers and young people to this sport by ensuring its mass appeal.
“The construction of the slalom stadium is one of our priorities in this regard.
“As a result of attracting a large number of young athletes, the selection of professional athletes from among them will be more convenient in the future.
“In this way, we aim to form a strong and competitive team.”
Jure Meglic made history by becoming the first-ever paddler to represent Azerbaijan in Canoe Slalom at an Olympic Games when he featured at Rio 2016.
That Olympic Games also saw Azerbaijan clinch two medals in Canoe Sprint.
Azerbaijan is aiming to return to those great heights by developing the sport from the ground up.
Development initiatives are underway in Canoe Sprint and Canoe Slalom as Azerbaijan seek to increase participation and boost the level of athletes.
ICF Board to head to Azerbaijan
Baku will be the stage of ICF Executive Committee and ICF Board of Directors meetings from March 11 to 15 this year.
On March 13, the ICF will be given a tour of the cluster sites in Baku City and Mingachevir where the AKAF will present their development plans for paddle sport.
Baku has established itself as a global destination for major international sporting events and conferences, notably hosting the inaugural European Games in 2015.
Canoe Sprint was among the 20 sports that featured at Baku 2015, with competition taking place at the Kur Sport and Rowing Centre in Mingachevir.
Every two years, Azerbaijan organises international regattas for juniors in May and October, featuring more than 20 nations from all continents.
Baku has been officially declared as the World Capital of Sport for 2026 and will hold this year’s SportAccord Convention from May 24 to 28.
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