We are pleased to announce the 8th World Tribology Congress (WTC 2026). It will be held in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, following previous WTC events in London (1997), Vienna (2001), Washington DC (2005), Kyoto (2009), Torino (2013), Beijing (2017) and Lyon (2022). WTC 2026 will bring together academic and industrial experts in tribology research to discuss state-of-the-art developments and future trends in the field, with a particular focus on the role of tribology for net-zero energy. The congress will take place in the stunning city of Rio de Janeiro, in Barra da Tijuca, home of the 2016 Olympic Games. Popularly known as Barra, it is the youngest and safest neighbourhood in Rio, offering a plethora of options for culture, fun, entertainment, tranquillity, safety and adventure. The venue, The Windsor Convention & Expo Centre, located just steps from the beach in Barra da Tijuca, offers everything necessary to ensure a successful event.

Aiming to highlight recent important progress in all aspects of Tribology, strengthen the links between academy and industry, provide a unique opportunity for discussion concerning the latest developments in Tribology and to promote international collaborations and exchanges, WTC 2026 will consist of scientific sessions, plenary, keynote and invited talks on topics at the cutting edge of the various Tribology disciplines, a wide exhibition and various events.