At the close of the 2026 World Open Classic Powerlifting World Championships in Druskininkai, Lithuania, I would like to express my gratitude to the multitudes who made this such a great event.
We saw 355 athletes travel to Lithuania with their attendant coaches, referees, family and supporters. 59 countries were represented this year, and it is wonderful to welcome lifters from every corner of the world.
The gap between male and female participation continues to close, from 43% in 2024 and 46% in 2025, this year more than 48% of participants were women, bringing us closer to parity than ever before.
25 world records were broken, some more than once! And once again we witnessed the biggest deadlift ever done in IPF history by a woman, either in classic or equipped. This time it was Aquinn Onuoha from the UK with a huge 292.5kg deadlift.
Ten established world champions added notches to their belts, and six brand new world champions were crowned.
I would like to offer my appreciation to all the athletes for their commitment, drive and dedication to powerlifting. Their achievements are the stars in our crown.
Thank you to the coaches, referees, spotters, loaders and volunteers who worked so hard to make this event successful. And thank you to the media teams who worked hard to present our sport in the best way possible.
I would like to also thank our presenting partners, SBD and Eleiko, and our destination partner, VisitMalta, whose enduring support makes these championships possible.
Sigurjón Petursson
IPF President
On behalf of the Executive Committee