Dame Lisa Carrington will not compete at the first Canoe Sprint World Cup regatta of the 2026 season in Szeged, Hungary, this weekend after receiving medical advice. The 36-year-old canoeing legend has withdrawn from New Zealand’s K4 500m crew.
Replacement in the K4 Boat
Aimee Fisher will step into the boat in Carrington’s place. She will race alongside Olivia Brett, Greer Morley, and one other teammate as the New Zealand squad adjusts to the late change.
Context and Implications
This withdrawal comes shortly after Carrington made headlines with her pregnancy announcement in mid-April. The multiple-time Olympic champion is prioritising her health and well-being as she manages her return to elite competition while navigating this new chapter in her personal life.
The opening World Cup in Szeged serves as an important early-season benchmark for paddlers targeting qualification and form ahead of major events, including the Los Angeles Olympics.
What’s Next for Carrington?
No further details have been released regarding the nature of the medical advice or her expected return timeline. New Zealand Canoeing is expected to provide updates as the season progresses.
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