Fort Lauderdale Named Host of Premier World Aquatics Events

World Aquatics has officially finalized the 2026 High Diving calendar, headlined by the return of the World Aquatics High Diving World Cupto the United States this May. Before the global stage arrives, our world-class facility will also host the prestigious American Cupin April.

In a landmark multi-year agreement, Fort Lauderdale will host three consecutive World Cup events from 2026 to 2028. The iconic Fort Lauderdale Aquatic Center (FLAC), located at 501 Seabreeze Blvd, will also welcome the Junior High Diving World Championshipsin both 2026 and 2028.

A Global Hub

The City of Fort Lauderdale is honored to serve as a global hub for the aquatics community, showcasing our world-class facility to an international audience.

"The Fort Lauderdale Aquatic Center has quickly become a symbol of excellence, and hosting these prestigious events shows that our city can compete and lead on the global stage. Our residents will have a front-row seat to world-class athleticism right here at home."

- Mayor Dean Trantalis

World-Class Competition at an Iconic Venue

The world's elite high divers are making a splash in Fort Lauderdale from April 16-19, 2026, for a weekend of high-stakes competition at the American Cup.

The momentum continues with the High Diving World Cup, held right here in our city from May 15-17, 2026. Running concurrently at the same venue, the 2026 Junior High Diving World Championship will feature athletes aged 15-19 as they chase global excellence.

"Fort Lauderdale and Porto Flavia each offer world-class, cost-effective facilities, including the only two permanent high diving towers in the world. This allows us to maximize the use of existing infrastructure while delivering competitions of the highest standard."

- Husain Al Musallam, World Aquatics President

Recently transformed by a $47 million renovation, the FLAC has earned a reputation as a "home for high diving." The FLAC features the highest permanent dive platform in the Western Hemisphere, standing an impressive 27 meters tall.

Defending the Crown

In 2025, defending world champion James Lichtenstein, secured his World Aquatics Championship title in Singapore and World Cup crown in Porto Flavia, Italy. While he earned his global titles abroad, the Fort Lauderdale Aquatic Center is his year-round training home.

"Hosting the World Cup and the Junior Championships in Fort Lauderdale is a huge moment for high diving in the United States. This community helped shape my career... This tower is the best place in the world to train and compete, and I'm excited that young athletes will get to experience it".

-James Lichtenstein, 2025 High Diving World Cup Champion

In 2026, Lichtenstein will finally have the chance to defend his titles on home turf.

Building the Future of Aquatics

This multi-year partnership offers more than just elite competition; it provides long-term stability for partners and broadcasters while establishing a clear development pathway for the next generation of athletes.

"The Fort Lauderdale Aquatic Center provides an environment where athletes can perform at their best, enhanced by the vibrant energy of the city and its coastline. We look forward to supporting another successful World Cup and are eager to see the next generation take the stage."

- Lee Michaud, USA Diving President

You're Invited

We invite our neighbors and sports fans from across the region to witness these incredible athletes diving in our own backyard.

Mark your calendar for the following dates:

• April 16-19: 2026 American Cup
• May 15-17: 2026 High Diving World Cup; 2026 Junior High Diving World Championship

Visit the World Aquatics website for upcoming ticket information and event schedules.