A Triumph of Talent and Emotion: Brno Hosts the 2025 WDSF World Championships

Brno, Czech Republic – 18 October 2025 – An unforgettable evening of world-class DanceSport unfolded at the Starez Arena Vodova in Brno, where more than 5,000 spectators filled the stands for two spectacular events: the WDSF World Championship Latin Adult and the WDSF World Championship Show Dance Standard Adult, taking place the first day of competition within the 2025 Brno Open. With a stunning atmosphere, national television coverage, and a devoted audience, the event once again confirmed Brno’s proud tradition as one of the world’s great DanceSport cities.

A Celebration of Dance and Emotion

The venue came alive from the opening moments, with an electric crowd cheering every performance. While the audience warmly supported all competitors, it was clear that each time a Czech couple stepped onto the floor, the local fans raised their voices in passionate support — a true celebration of home pride.

The event received exceptional visibility through Czech National Television, Brněnský deník, and strong coverage across WDSF’s social media channels, supported by a vibrant campaign featuring billboards, influencers, and digital promotion.

Highlights and Results of the Day, 18^th October

WDSF World Championship Latin Adult

The competition delivered remarkable performances throughout the day, culminating in a stunning opening ceremony before the highly anticipated semi-final. Excitement reached its peak as local stars Jakub Lipowski and Tereza Kučerová (CZE) qualified for the final, to the delight of the home audience.

The final itself was a feast of rhythm and artistry — featuring Group Cha Cha, Solo Samba, Group Paso Doble, Solo Rumba, and a rousing Group Jive to close. The crowd rose to its feet as each couple delivered their signature moves in a thrilling display of skill and passion, transforming the floor into a festival.

Charles-Guillaume Schmitt and Elena Salikhova (FRA) captured their first World Championship Latin title — an emotional triumph that left them almost lost for words. Joining them on the podium were Guillem Pascual and Diandra-Aniela Illes (ESP), making a remarkable return after Diandra’s injury earlier this season at the GrandSlam Stuttgart, and Yan Bangbang and Du Yujun (CHN), back in action following a recovery that kept them out of the GrandSlam in Rome earlier this month. It was truly a day defined by comebacks, resilience, and outstanding excellence.

Charles-Guillaume Schmitt & Elena Salikhova

Following their victory, Charles-Guillaume Schmitt and Elena Salikhova expressed heartfelt gratitude in an exclusive interview — now available on the official WDSF channel — describing the moment as “magical and unforgettable”, made even more special by the presence of their enthusiastic French supporters. The interview ended in pure joy, as Charles and Elena were lifted and tossed into the air by their fellow dancers — a moment that perfectly captured the spirit of celebration filling the arena.

You can check all the competition results here.

WDSF World Championship Show Dance Standard Adult

If the Latin event thrilled with rhythm, the Show Dance Standard captivated with storytelling. Artistry and athleticism blended seamlessly in a series of breathtaking performances that held the audience spellbound.

The champions of the night were Dmitri Kolobov and Signe Busk (DEN), whose mesmerising performance combined flawless technique with expressive storytelling. Having competed at the highest levels for several years — including several gold medal wins this season and a strong 4^th place at the European Championship Standard Adult last March in Calvià — they secured a thoroughly deserved World Title in Show Dance Standard.

The crowd responded with heartfelt emotion and admiration, with particularly enthusiastic support for the home favourites, Jan Metlický and Ela Odstrčilová (CZE), a duo dancing together since 2018 who won the Czech adult titles in Combined and Show Dance this year, and achieved their first international victory at the WDSF International Open in Hradec Králové. Their elegant routine earned them second place and a standing ovation.

In third place stood Angelo Annese and Lisa Cudin (ITA), who achieved silver at the World Championship Show Dance Standard in Sitges in 2024.

Distinguished Guests and Acknowledgements

The event was honoured by the presence of distinguished guests and representatives of the Local Organising Committee. WDSF extends its gratitude to the Local Organising Committee, the Olympic Channel for their coverage, and Casa musica for providing the unforgettable soundtrack to the final rounds.

“What we saw tonight goes beyond medals and titles. Brno reminded us of what DanceSport truly stands for — unity, creativity, and the shared joy of movement. The level of artistry in the Latin Championship was extraordinary, while the emotions and stories told through the Show Dance Standard touched every heart in the arena. A powerful reminder that DanceSport is not just competition — it’s art in motion.”

Looking Ahead: 19^th of October, Second Day of Competition

The excitement continues Sunday, 19^th October, with another full day of top-level competition featuring an impressive line-up of categories:

WDSF World Open (new series) Standard Adult
WDSF World Open (new series) Latin Adult
WDSF Open Standard Youth
WDSF Open Standard Junior I
WDSF Open Standard Junior II
WDSF Open Latin Youth
WDSF Open Latin Junior I
WDSF Open Latin Junior II

Fans can expect another thrilling day packed with energy, elegance, and emotion, as dancers from around the world return to the floor determined to capture titles, points, and the hearts of the audience. With so much talent and passion on display, Brno is once again set to become the beating heart of the DanceSport world — and you won’t want to miss a single moment.

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Photos of the event by: Katerina Rysava

Published on 19 October 2025