Published on 31 Jul 2026

ISSF World Cup Hangzhou 2026: Hangzhou leaves lasting legacy as ISSF World Cup concludes

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The ISSF World Cup Hangzhou 2026 came to a close after six days of world-class competition, leaving a legacy that extends far beyond the medals awarded at the Fuyang Yinhu Sports Centre.

Bringing together 686 athletes from 61 countries and 66 ISSF Member Federations, the event once again demonstrated the global strength of shooting sport. Olympic champions, world champions and rising talents shared the firing line, producing memorable performances across rifle, pistol and shotgun disciplines while reinforcing Hangzhou's reputation as one of the ISSF calendar's premier destinations.

For the host nation, the World Cup was an opportunity to showcase not only elite competition but also its ability to organise an event of the highest international standard. From the quality of the venue to the professionalism of the Local Organising Committee, Hangzhou provided athletes, officials, media and spectators with an outstanding championship experience.
The week also reflected the continued growth of shooting sport in Asia. Large crowds followed the finals, creating an atmosphere that inspired athletes and highlighted the region's enthusiasm for ISSF competitions. Home supporters were rewarded with a series of impressive performances from the Chinese team, whose athletes reached numerous finals and celebrated several victories in front of their own fans.

Athletes also rewrote the record books on multiple occasions. China's Yao Qianxun and Hu Kai established a new World Record of 488.4 to win the 10m Air Pistol Mixed Team title, before compatriot Zhang Changhong set another World Record with 363.0 in the Men's 50m Rifle 3 Positions final. The championships concluded with Australia's James Willett and Penny Smith equalling the World Record in the Trap Mixed Team event, posting 37 hits to claim the final gold medal.
Beyond the results, Hangzhou highlighted the strategic importance of China to the future of shooting sport. As one of the world's largest sporting markets and a nation with a rich tradition of excellence, China continues to play a pivotal role in the ISSF's global strategy. Outstanding venues, exceptional organisation, strong spectator engagement and extensive media coverage demonstrated why the country remains one of the Federation's most valued hosts and an important market for expanding the visibility and commercial appeal of the sport.

China also underlined its competitive strength by topping the medal table with 18 medals, including seven gold, six silver and five bronze. The United States finished second with two gold, two silver and four bronze, while India completed the top three with one gold, one silver and two bronze. Overall, athletes from 17 nations won gold medals and 15 Member Federations celebrated at least one podium finish, illustrating the remarkable depth of the ISSF World Cup circuit.
The championships also provided the backdrop for significant developments beyond competition, including the announcement of the ISSF's partnership with Relegend, reinforcing the Federation's commitment to growing shooting sport on and off the field of play.

The relationship between the ISSF and China will continue well beyond this year's event. In 2027, Hangzhou will host the ISSF Shotgun World Cup, while China will also welcome the ISSF Junior World Cup, reaffirming the country's central role in the international shooting sport calendar and its long-term commitment to the development of the sport.


As the international season moves forward, Hangzhou leaves behind far more than memorable finals and medal-winning performances. It leaves a legacy of sporting excellence, innovation and international cooperation, strengthening the foundations of shooting sport while building momentum on the road to the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games.