World Para Fencing World Cup Returns to U.S. in 2026, Powered by Bradenton Area Sports

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. — Sunshine, steel and speed will converge on Florida’s Gulf Coast in May 2026 when the world’s top wheelchair fencers converge in Bradenton for a World Para Fencing World Cup. The bid — anchored by a significant investment from Bradenton Area Sports and backed by IMG Academy’s elite facilities — was recently approved by World Abilitysport, ushering elite parafencing back to the United States for the first time since the 2023 World Cup in Loudoun County, Va. 

The tournament — set for May 27–30, 2026, is expected to draw hundreds of athletes, coaches and officials from more than two dozen nations, offering precious ranking points on the road to the LA28 Paralympic Games. Beyond medals and world rankings, the event will showcase Bradenton’s accessibility upgrades, athlete-first accommodations and a warm-weather training environment made possible through Bradenton Area Sports’  targeted investment in adaptive sport. 

“When we hosted the 2023 World Cup in Loudoun County, the feedback from athletes and coaches was unanimous — the hospitality was world-class, and the fencing even better,” says Phil Andrews, USA Fencing CEO. “Thanks to the vision and support of Bradenton Area Sports, we’re thrilled to once again roll out the red carpet for the global parafencing community and raise the bar even higher in 2026.”

The World Cup will feature individual and team events in foil, epee and saber across all classification categories, plus referee and classifier seminars aimed at growing the domestic talent pool. IMG Academy’s accessible venue layout and onsite medical and recovery resources were key factors in the successful bid, ensuring athletes have everything they need to perform at their peak. 

“Hosting a World Cup at home is vital as we build momentum toward LA28,” says Beth Mahr, USA Fencing’s Parafencing Manager. “It gives our U.S. athletes a rare chance to compete against the world without crossing an ocean, while inspiring the next generation of parafencers who will see this sport, and themselves, on the biggest stage.”

USA Fencing will work closely with Bradenton Area Sports, IMG Academy and community partners to deliver a sustainable, athlete-centric event that leaves a lasting legacy in adaptive sport tourism along Florida’s Suncoast. Ticket and volunteer information will be released in the coming months. For now, mark your calendars and we hope to see you there.