Team Kroken to Represent Sweden at 2026 Team Racing Worlds
Team Kroken came out on top in the race to represent Sweden at the 2026 Team Racing Worlds.
Team Kroken, led by brothers Lukas and Fabian Bergman, has qualified for the 2026 Team Racing World Championship. The team will represent GSYS – and Sweden – when the world’s top team racing sailors gather on Riddarfjärden in Stockholm on 12–16 August.
The World Championship berth was secured this weekend during the Summer Cup at Beckholmen, sailed in excellent conditions with steady winds and a high competitive standard. Four GSYS teams competed, joined by the visiting and highly accomplished Royal Thames Yacht Club (RTYC) from London.
“It feels incredibly exciting. A few years ago, when it was first discussed that the Team Racing World Championship might be held in Stockholm, we said within the team that this was our long-term goal. To now represent Sweden on home waters is something special,” says Fabian Bergman.
Consistent Sailing and a Dramatic Final
Heading into the Summer Cup, Team Kroken was already leading the World Championship selection standings after winning the Spring Cup. Throughout the weekend, the team demonstrated consistency and sharp tactical decision-making, taking the lead after Saturday’s racing and securing an early place in the final.
The final was sailed as a best-of-three series against RTYC and delivered plenty of drama. After losing the first race, Team Kroken bounced back to level the series in race two. The deciding moment came on the final leg of the third race, where Kroken managed to outmanoeuvre their opponents and secure victory.
“We were nervous going into the final, but we felt that we had sailed both strategically and tactically well throughout the regatta. As long as one of our boats stayed in contact with the opposition, we knew we had a chance – and in the end it paid off,” says Fabian Bergman.
During the final races, the wind increased gradually and ranged from 2 to 8 m/s, placing high demands on teamwork and precision on board.
“The finals were incredibly intense. In those conditions, complete crew synchronisation was essential to have any chance,” he adds.
Focus Turns to World Championship Preparations
In practice, the World Championship spot was already secured before the final, as the other GSYS teams had been passed in the overall standings. Now, just over two months of preparations remain before the championship.
The work begins with a review of the season so far to identify strengths and areas for improvement. The focus will then shift to boat handling and boat speed, particularly as the team will have the opportunity to train in the same boats that will be used during the World Championship.
“At the Worlds, we’ll be up against exceptionally skilled team racers. If we can sail faster in all conditions and manoeuvres, that gives us a direct advantage,” says Fabian Bergman.
Team Kroken – Crew
Boat 1
Fabian Bergman (Helmsman, TC)
Lisa Gross
Ebba Strandberg
Johan Bäckman Berg
Boat 2
Lukas Bergman (Helmsman)
Filippa Larsson Nathhorst
Fabian Sund
Gustav Kjellberg
Coach: Viktor Ossmark
Results – Summer Cup
Team Kroken
Royal Thames Yacht Club (RTYC)
Team Hattifnatti
Dream Team
Team Wind