2026 World Cup Orienteering: Locarno and Ascona lead the way

Context

In brief - World Cup - 250 athletes - 30 countries

Key Facts

• Date: April 24-26, 2026
• Location: Locarno and Ascona
• Athletes: 250 top
• Countries: 30
• Viewers: thousands
• Races: individual sprint, sprint relay, knock-out sprint
• Transmission: SSR SRG and IOF platform

Locarno and Ascona will host the first stage of the 2026 Orienteering World Cup from 24 to 26 April, an event that will transform the Locarno area into an international sports hub. According to data provided by the organizing committee, about 250 top athletes from 30 countries are expected, flanked by thousands of spectators and enthusiasts.

The program of the races

The start of the competitions will be given on Friday 24 April with the individual sprint scheduled between 13.30 and 18.00. On Saturday 25 April the sprint relay will run from 16.00 to 18.00, while the event will end on Sunday 26 April with the knock-out sprint, a direct elimination race with batteries of six athletes, of which only two will enter the next round (11.00 - 15.15).

The centerpiece of the event will be Piazza Grande in Locarno, transformed into an arena for sprint races and visible live on the sports channels of the SSR SRG for Italian-speaking and German-speaking Switzerland, as well as abroad. The images will also be disseminated in countries such as Sweden and Finland, as well as on the platform of the international orienteering federation (IOF).

Popular participation

In addition to the athletes, the organizing committee has registered over 1,800 registrations for the collateral races, scheduled between the Arcegno forest and the streets of Ascona. "We are very satisfied with the more than 1,800 registered for both the national race on Saturday and Sunday," said Antonio Kocsis, president of the organizing committee. "It means that we are not talking about an event for a few specialists, but a sports festival that involves an entire region."

Economic impact and visibility for Ticino

The influx of athletes, companions and spectators will generate economic repercussions on the area, with overnight stays, catering and related activities. "It is a rare opportunity for Ticino," Kocsis stressed. "Not only do we welcome athletes from all over Europe and beyond, but we show the world the beauty and variety of our territory."

Traffic restrictions

To allow the races to take place, restrictions and temporary traffic closures are planned in several districts of Locarno and in the Ascona core. Details will be published on the websites of the municipalities concerned.

Operational details

The 2026 World Orienteering Championships are more than just a sporting event; they are also a chance for community building and promoting the Ticino region. For cross-border workers who live or work in the area, this event represents a unique opportunity to experience sport firsthand and contribute to the local economy.

Opportunities for cross-border workers and residents

Enthusiasts who register for the side events will have the chance to compete against top international athletes, experiencing the event as key players. The national races on Saturday and Sunday are open to everyone, regardless of age or experience. 'It is a sporting celebration that involves an entire region,' noted Kocsis, highlighting how the event is designed to be inclusive.

Practical scenarios for cross-border workers

For those living in Lombardy and working in the Locarno area, the event offers a great reason to plan a weekend getaway. Hotels and bed and breakfasts in Locarno and Ascona may fill up quickly, so booking in advance is advisable. Travel plans could be affected by traffic restrictions, particularly in central Locarno and Ascona.

Comparison with past events

In recent years, Ticino has hosted numerous high-profile sporting events, but the World Orienteering Championships stand out for their ability to engage both professionals and the general public. Unlike other races, this edition features a diverse programme, including individual races, relays, and knockout sprints, ensuring non-stop entertainment.

International visibility and regional promotion

Live broadcasts on SSR SRG channels and international platforms like the IOF will give Ticino a unique showcase. Piazza Grande, the heart of the event, will be under the media spotlight, helping to strengthen the region’s image as a hub for sport and tourism.

What changes for cross-border workers

Cross-border workers who decide to take part will have the chance to immerse themselves in Swiss sport, but should be prepared for potential travel disruptions and accommodation shortages. It is advisable to check road restrictions in advance and book accommodation early, especially if coming from abroad.

'It is a sporting celebration that involves an entire region' — Kocsis

📊 Plan ahead: book your stay and check traffic updates to make the most of your experience.

💡 Don’t miss the side events — a chance to meet elite athletes and enjoy the Ticino landscape.

⚠️ Traffic restrictions may apply in Locarno and Ascona during the event. Allow extra travel time.

Recommended tools

For an updated estimate, use the net salary calculator and the CHF-EUR exchange comparator.

Key points

Are you one of the 1,800 enthusiasts who have registered for the side events of the 2026 World Orienteering Cup, or simply want to attend as a spectator? Here’s how to make the most of the experience.

Step 1: Check traffic restrictions

The races will impact road traffic in the Locarno and Ascona districts. Details of temporary closures will be published on the official websites of the municipalities involved:

• Locarno Municipality website: locarno.ch
• Ascona Municipality website: ascona.ch

We recommend checking these pages at least 48 hours before the event to plan your travel.

Step 2: Book accommodation in advance

Locarno and Ascona may experience high demand, especially for overnight stays on Friday and Saturday nights. Platforms like Booking.com or Airbnb might not have availability, so it’s worth contacting local accommodations directly or exploring private lodgings.

Step 3: Participate in the side events

Registrations for the national races on Saturday and Sunday are already open. If you haven’t confirmed your participation yet, you can sign up directly on the official event website:

• Official website: orienteering-locarno.ch

Categories are divided by age and experience level, so there’s something for everyone. Note: the races will take place in wooded areas, so wear suitable sports clothing and footwear.

Step 4: Follow the competitions live

If you can’t participate as an athlete, you can still enjoy the event as a spectator. Piazza Grande will be the hub for the sprint races, where you can watch the starts and finishes. For those who can’t attend in person, the races will be broadcast live on SSR SRG channels and the IOF platform.

Step 5: Support the local economy

Participating in the competitions or simply attending as a spectator helps boost the local economy. Inns, restaurants, and small businesses will benefit from the influx of visitors, strengthening the region’s economic fabric.

What to do if you’re a cross-border worker

If you live in Lombardy and work in the Locarno area, this event is a great opportunity to experience Ticino as a protagonist. Organize a day trip with friends or family, combining race participation with a visit to the area’s highlights, such as Lake Maggiore or Castelgrande.

Useful tools

To plan your participation, use these resources:

• Travel cost calculator to estimate transport and accommodation expenses
• Ticino municipalities map to check road restrictions
• Local events calendar to discover other initiatives in the area

Don’t miss the chance to experience one of the year’s most anticipated sporting events in the heart of Locarno!

Source: tio.ch