Deconstructing the 2026 FISU World University Rowing Championships Event Logo

The FISU Rowing 2026 event logo brings together core FISU elements with symbols that reflect London’s identity, Canada’s heritage, and the global spirit of university sport.

At the heart of the design is a prominent “U,” representing the international university community that defines FISU. Woven through the letter is a thread of Western University’s official colour, purple, highlighting Western’s role in bringing the championships to London, Ontario, Canada.

Centered within the logo is a tree, symbolizing London’s long-standing identity as a “Forest City.” The tree’s branches are shaped to resemble rowing oar blades, connecting the natural landscape of the host city with the sport at the centre of the championships. Surrounding elements incorporate blue, black, red, yellow, and green, colours representing the world’s inhabited continents and the global reach of FISU competition.

Anchoring the design at the bottom is a maple leaf, a widely recognized symbol of Canada and a clear marker of the host nation. The maple leaf became the central national symbol of Canada with the adoption of the national flag in 1965, reinforcing the country’s presence on the international stage.

FISU Rowing 2026 event lead, and Mustangs Men’s Rowing Head Coach Dan Bechard noted that the logo reflects multiple layers of meaning. “All in, this logo is a representation of our community, our country, our University, and our sport.”

The official FISU Rowing 2026 event logo was designed by Phil den Hollander of Underdog Creative, in collaboration with Ryan Robinson, Western Mustangs Sports Information Coordinator.

Canada will host FISU Rowing for the first time in the history of the championships in 2026, as London prepares to welcome top university rowers from around the world. The FISU World University Rowing Championships will take place August 13 to 15, 2026, at Fanshawe Lake.

Located within the Fanshawe Conservation Area, the Doug Wells Training Centre will serve as the official host venue. The event is expected to welcome athletes from more than 20 countries, marking a major milestone for university rowing in Canada. Team registration is now open.