Central Asian leaders launch F1H2O Grand Prix on Lake Issyk-Kul
Along the shores of Lake Issyk-Kul Central Asian presidents gathered to inaugurate the Kyrgyzstan Grand Prix of the F1H2O World Championship.
After the opening, the leaders greeted competing teams and enthusiastic spectators before watching the opening qualification heats from the VIP observation area.
Tian-Shan range as a backdrop for water race
Organised by the Union Internationale Motonautique, the championship round represents the first time a Central Asian nation has hosted a stage of this competition.
Following the 2026 season opener in Cagliari, Italy, the competition moved to the alpine waters off Baet village. Situated 1,607 metres above sea level along a 1,929-metre course, the Issyk-Kul circuit ranks as the highest-altitude venue in the championship’s history.
The grand prix features eight international teams and 18 elite racers hailing from countries such as Australia, Canada and the United Arab Emirates. Athletes pilot specialised composite catamarans fitted with closed safety cockpits, capable of reaching speeds up to 250 km/h. Racers are adjusting to the thin mountain air as they battle for crucial standings after a dramatic opening round in Europe.
The high-speed sporting event unfolded alongside an informal consultative summit in the resort town of Cholpon-Ata.
