The NZ men's eight, gold medalists at the Tokyo Olympics. Photo: PHOTOSPORT
World Rowing plans to introduce a mixed boat category for upcoming major championships.
The plan was discussed at a recent World Rowing Quadrennial Congress with the idea that it could be a part of the Los Angeles 2028 Olympics.
World Rowing made a proposal to its 160 Member Federations to introduce a mixed boat category in the Olympic and World Championship event programmes.
The Mixed Eight would be in addition to traditional eight boat class.
World Rowing said in a statement it was positioning the new event as a strong contender for inclusion in the next Olympic Games, reinforcing its commitment to gender balance and innovation in the sport.
The Mixed Eight will be officially introduced at the 2025 World Rowing Championships in Shanghai, China, after being offered as a test race at both World Rowing Cups in 2025.
"These changes represent a significant evolution in Classic Rowing," said Jean-Christophe Rolland, World Rowing President.
"By updating the progression system and introducing a mixed eight event, we are ensuring that our sport remains relevant and competitive, while also making it more exciting and accessible to fans around the world."
New Zealand has a long tradition in Olympic rowing with 29 medals including 14 gold medals.
New Zealand has won two gold medals in men's eight and a silver in the women's eight.
New Zealand women's rowing eight, silver medalists, Tokyo Olympics. Photo: Steve McArthur/Photosport Ltd 2021
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