Changes to WCA Head-to-Head Format (April 2026)

Announced by Kyle Kayden Renatus on

Dear WCA Community,

Over the past few months, we have hosted several competitions featuring the new Head-to-Head format in the 3x3, 3x3 One-Handed, 3x3 Blindfolded and 4x4 events. Based on extensive feedback received from the community in-person and via livestreams on the WCA Youtube Channel, the following changes have been made:

  • The 3x3 Fewest Moves and 3x3 Multi-Blind events have been added to the list of Head-to-Head events.
  • The restriction on competitions not running for longer than 16 hours without a break of at least 9 hours will be removed for competitions featuring the Head-to-Head format.
  • Minor changes regarding the organisation of Head-to-Head competitions.

The decision to include 3x3 Fewest Moves and 3x3 Multi-Blind was a decision to unite them with the other 3x3-based events as part of this opportunity. This decision was made following consultations with world-class cubers in these events, who agreed with the public feedback that these events being omitted was confusing, and that they would love the opportunity for their main events to be given a spotlight on the international stage.

We are confident that these changes will substantially improve the experience for both competitors and spectators of a WCA Head-to-Head competition.

For more information regarding these changes, please read our public explainer document here.