Team Tai Kei Triumphs at WRC 2025, Claiming World Championship Title

Team Tai Kei Triumphs at WRC 2025

In an exhilarating showdown held from November 30 to December 6, the International Rafting Federation (IRF) World Rafting Championship (WRC) 2025 took place in Malaysia. Competing against 21 countries with 65 teams, Japan’s own Team Tai Kei emerged victorious in the open men’s division, claiming the prestigious title of global champions!

Championship Overview

Team Tai Kei demonstrated remarkable skill and determination across four challenging events: the Sprint, H2H (Head-to-Head), Slalom, and Downriver races. The overall ranking was determined by their cumulative scores from these events.

In the Sprint, Team Tai Kei led with a narrow lead of 0.6 seconds over Brazil, securing the top position. The second day brought the tense H2H tournament, where, despite battling fiercely, Team Tai Kei finished in second place after a thrilling final round against Brazil. However, they quickly regained their strength on the third day during the Slalom event, easily topping the leaderboard with a solid seven-second lead over the second place. Finally, in the climactic Downriver event, the team showcased their endurance and speed, finishing the race in first place and cementing their status as champions of the world.

Captain and Coach's Reflections

Team captain Akira Nakano, 33, expressed his elation: "This is our first world championship since the 2011 event in Costa Rica. Although we previously won the WRF in Italy in 2023, Brazil’s top team was absent then. Competing against them this time and securing victory is truly gratifying. Our shared determination and spirit resulted in this achievement. We will continue our pursuit of excellence with a challenger mindset, never forgetting our roots."

Coach Shigeto Asano, 51, added, "I am filled with pride that we could showcase Japan's strength on such a global stage."

A Historic Victory Against Rivals

Defeating their long-standing rivals from Brazil, Team Tai Kei’s triumph represents a true testament to their perseverance and dedication to the sport. The craftsmen of rafting have etched their compelling performance into the hearts of enthusiasts worldwide.

Their journey back to Japan on December 10 will undoubtedly be celebrated by fans and supporters. With gratitude, Team Tai Kei extends their heartfelt thanks to everyone for their unwavering encouragement, marking a memorable chapter for Japanese rafting.

This victory isn't just a win; it's a beacon of hope and pride for all aspiring rafters, symbolizing what perseverance and teamwork can achieve on the world stage.