The 2025 World Rowing Championships got off to a great start on Sunday in Shanghai's Qingpu District, with heats and preliminary races in six disciplines held in warm, tailwind conditions.

The championships, held in China for the first time, have drawn 1,203 athletes and coaches from 55 countries and regions, who will compete in 23 boat classes through September 28.

China made a strong start in the preliminary rounds, with Zou Jiaqi and Fu Ling gaining an open-water lead of 500m and expanding it to a comfortable lead at the finish.

In the lightweight men's double sculls, Li Yawei and Sun Man finished first, followed by Indonesia, Germany, and Georgia.

The racing session was followed by the official opening ceremony on Sunday afternoon.

The opening ceremony, attended by Shanghai Mayor Gong Zheng and World Rowing President Jean-Christophe Rolland, featured three-dimensional performances on water, land, and in the air, with international athletes entering on Qingpu's historic rowboats.

"We were meant to be here in 2021, but the pandemic forced cancellation," Rolland recalled. "We are truly delighted to finally be here in this vibrant and dynamic city for the greatest event of the year for our sport.

"We very much look forward to witnessing a week of thrilling, fair, and inspiring racing."

Spectators can reach Metro Line 17's Oriental Land Station and take the free shuttle bus service to reach the venue.

For those who can't make it to the venue, live video streaming is available on CCTV and Shanghai's Great Sports channel for all heats, quarterfinals, semifinals, and finals.

The provisional timetable for the events can be found on www.worldrowing.com.