The Junior World Orienteering Championships (JWOC) 2026 are scheduled to be held in Karlskrona, Sweden from 29 June – 4 July 2026. JWOC will consist of individual Sprint, Middle, and Long distance races, a Sprint Relay and a Forest Relay.

Classes are:

• M20 – born in 2006 or later
• W20 – born in 2006 or later

New Zealand is entitled to enter up to 6 athletes in each class.

Selection Criteria

As per the Orienteering NZ G1 Selection Policy the 2026 JWOC team will be selected primarily on the basis of performances in the following races:

• the 2026 Team Trials Sprint, Middle and Long Races (7-8 March)

Performance at previous national and international championship events may also be considered. Overseas-based athletes should discuss with the Senior Selection Panel appropriate events that may be used to assess their form and fitness.

Expression of Interest

All athletes interested in selection for the 2026 JWOC, WUOC and/or EYOC teams should use the following form to notify their interest, year of birth, email and cell phone number by 1 March 2026.

We encourage athletes to submit their expression of interest early, as those registered will be included in discussions on topics such as accommodation options.Any questions should be directed to the Senior Selection Panel (senior.selection@orienteering.org.nz).