Wildwater Canoeing & Rafting World Cup Mezzana

The White Water World Cup in Val di Sole

Every year in late June, the Mezzana river stadium transforms into the international capital of white water. On the rushing rapids of the Noce River, in Val di Sole, the world's best athletes gather for an event that combines two spectacular disciplines: wildwater canoeing and rafting. The event brings World Cup stages and the Italian National Championships to the municipality of Mezzana, in the province of Trento, in the heart of the Trentino-Alto Adige region.

The Noce River, a natural stage

The Noce is no ordinary river: with twenty-eight navigable kilometers, it has been listed by National Geographic among the top ten waterways in the world and is recognized as the premier destination in Europe for rafting and canoeing. Its fast, technical waters offer an ideal setting for both elite racing and spectators, who can follow the regattas directly from the banks.

The competition disciplines

The program covers numerous white water specialties:

• Classic wildwater: individual long-distance racing through the rapids;
• Sprint wildwater: short, high-speed heats and finals;
• Rafting sprint: two timed runs;
• Rafting RX Knock Out: a spectacular direct elimination format;
• Rafting slalom: navigating between suspended gates over the river;
• Italian National Championships for wildwater and rafting.

Categories include senior men's, women's, mixed, and para-rafting, showcasing the inclusive and comprehensive nature of the event.

An international event

The event attracts nations from across Europe and the globe—from France to the Czech Republic, Switzerland to Japan, Slovenia to Turkey—turning Val di Sole into a crossroads for river sports. The organization is managed by the Italian Canoe Kayak Federation and the Italian Rafting Federation, in collaboration with the Canoa Rafting Club Pescantina Bussolengo, the Municipality of Mezzana, the Tourist Consortium, and the Val di Sole Tourist Board, with the support of the Autonomous Province of Trento.

Sport, tourism, and celebration

Beyond the races, the event is a true celebration: on Friday and Saturday evenings, the Wild Water Party brings together athletes, coaches, and fans. The event generates significant benefits for local hospitality, dining, and sports tourism, confirming Val di Sole as a premier destination for outdoor sports. Admission to the competitions is free.