The Storm 4th No Urethane Open is set to return to Lahti Bowl Center, Finland, from April 13 to 26, 2026, and once again promises to be one of Europe’s most talked-about international bowling tournaments.
With its distinctive no-urethane format and strong prize fund, the event continues to attract bowlers from across Europe and beyond. Over the past editions, it has built a reputation as a tournament where anyone can contend, with results decided purely by execution and smart decision-making.
Last year’s competition underlined that reputation once again.
Finland’s Joonas Jähi captured the title, while Eliisa Hiltunen left a clear mark on the event finishing second,
following
Peppi Konsteri’s historic victory at the 2nd No Urethane Open.
Oil Pattern Announced
Organizers have officially unveiled the oil pattern for the STORM 4th No Urethane Open 2026.
This pattern will measure 41 feet and features a 2:1 ratio with a total oil
volume of 29.25 mL.
Tournament organizers noted they want to keep
the scoring pace "rather medium than high" for this edition. To do that, they
are exclusively using Kegel ICE conditioner, which means players will see
slightly less friction at the front of the lane but a little more carry down
as the blocks go on.
While the layout allows bowlers to play
different parts of the lane, organizers suggest starting more down the lane."
No Urethane Rule
What truly sets the Storm No Urethane Open apart is its equipment rule. At a time when discussions around the role of urethane in today's bowling are happening all around the world, the tournament’s format feels more relevant than ever.
The first shot of every frame must be thrown with a reactive bowling ball,
with urethane strictly prohibited. This removes one of the most commonly used
tools in today's game and places the focus back on precision, adaptability,
and smart ball choices.
As the lanes transition, players must read
the pattern carefully, making every game a true test of skill. For many
competitors, this unique format is exactly what makes the event so appealing.
Win Big
Beyond the format, the tournament also delivers when it comes to prize money.
Supported by main sponsor Storm Bowling, the total prize fund remains €40,000. The champion will earn €8,000, while every bowler reaching the final stages is guaranteed a minimum payout of €400.
This structure rewards more players than usual, offering solid value for both top contenders and those who strike a bit less.
Tournament Format
The competition begins with a six-game qualification round, with entries and re-entries available, followed by a one-game Desperado squad. From there, 40 athletes advance to the final steps.
The top eight bowlers from qualification move directly into Final Step 2, while the remaining qualifiers start in Final Step 1.
After five scratch games, 16 players advance, joining the top eight for Final Step 2, where six more scratch games decide the final eight.
The tournament concludes with a round robin Final Step 3, where no pinfall
carries over and each win is worth a 30-pin bonus, ensuring a dramatic and
open fight for the title until the very last game.
Find more details about the format, prize fund and squad fees
here.
Exclusive Seminars with Matt McNiel
In addition to the tournament action, we've got an amazing opportunity for you to level up your game in Lahti.
Matt McNiel - Storm International Technical Director and 4-time USBC Open Championships titlist - will be hosting two awesome seminars.
On Thursday, April 23rd at 18:30, he'll cover "How to navigate in urethane traffic," and on Friday, April 24th at 18:30, he'll dive into "Champions mindset, deeper in to mental game."
Each seminar costs 150 €, and as a massive bonus, every single participant will walk away with a brand new Roto Grip Gremlin Tour-X included!
Hurry Up - Registration is Open!
Last year, the tournament welcomed over 230 from 12 countries players, and interest for this edition suggests that number could be even higher. With entry spots filling quickly, now is the time to secure your place on the lanes.
Don't forget to follow all the updates on the tournament’s Facebook and Instagram channels.
If you’re aiming for something more than a standard tournament experience, Lahti is the place to be. The Storm No Urethane Open delivers a competition that stands apart from the rest.
