Minister for Health Jennifer Carroll MacNeill TD Welcomes World’s Best Sailors to Dún Laoghaire for ILCA’s 7 Men’s World Championship

Dún Laoghaire is proudly hosting one of the most prestigious events in international sailing this week as 141 sailors from 45 countries gather for the 2026 ILCA 7 Men's World Championship.

Minister for Health Jennifer Carroll MacNeill officially opened the championship, welcoming competitors, officials and supporters from around the world to the historic sailing venue on Dublin Bay.

The championship brings together some of the sport's most accomplished athletes, including double Olympic champion Matt Wearn of Australia, defending world champion Willem Wiersema of the Netherlands, and Ireland's own Finn Lynch, who claimed silver at the 2021 World Championships.

Speaking at the opening ceremony, Minister Carroll MacNeill highlighted both the sporting significance of the event and the warm welcome extended by the local community.

"We're so thrilled to welcome 141 sailors from 45 countries to Dún Laoghaire to celebrate a magnificent championship. This event showcases not only the highest levels of international sporting excellence but also the unique hospitality, scenic beauty and maritime heritage of our town and country."

The championship represents a major occasion for Irish sailing and for Dún Laoghaire, a town with deep connections to maritime sport and recreation. Hosting athletes from across the globe provides an opportunity to promote Ireland as a destination for international sporting events while bringing significant benefits to the local economy.

Throughout the week, spectators will have the opportunity to witness world-class competition on Dublin Bay as sailors compete for one of the most sought-after titles in the sport. With Olympic medallists, world champions and rising stars all taking to the water, the championship promises exciting racing in one of sailing's most competitive classes.

Minister Carroll MacNeill wished all competitors the very best for the week ahead and thanked the organisers, volunteers and sailing community whose commitment has made the championship possible.

As racing gets underway, Dún Laoghaire once again takes its place on the world sporting stage, welcoming visitors from every corner of the globe and celebrating the very best of international sailing.