2025 Formula Kite European Championships in Urla, Türkiye - Preview
by International Kiteboarding Association 4 May 04:33 AEST
11-19 May 2025
Formula Kite Europeans © IKA Media / Robert Hajduk
The 2025 Formula Kite European Championships are set to bring high-stakes competition and fresh challenges as the world's top riders take to the waters of Urla, Türkiye.
With the first senior title of the new Olympic quad up for grabs, this championship marks a critical moment in the evolution of the sport.
Shifts in the landscape
Over the past few months, classic regattas have indicated shifting tides among the sport's elite. With many top contenders from the previous quad—such as France's Lauriane Nolot, the USA's Daniela Moroz, and Great Britain's Ellie Aldridge—stepping back for a break, the door is open for emerging talent to seize the spotlight. Nolot, the reigning world champion, Moroz, a five-time world champion, and Aldridge, a European podium regular, have dominated the Formula Kite scene, but their absence makes way for new faces to shine.
Additionally, the reduction in kite size—particularly for female athletes—aims to curb rapid weight gain trends in the class. Recent racing at the SOF in Hyères hinted that this adjustment may be yielding positive results, but the European Championships will be a crucial testing ground for its long-term impact.
Women's competition - Who will step up?
With the absence of Nolot, Moroz, and Aldridge, expect a fierce battle for the top positions. Argentina's Catalina Turienzo and Australia's Breiana Whitehead bring valuable international experience, while Poland's Julia Damasiewicz and Portugal's Mafalda Pires de Lima have shown promise in recent events. Spain's Gisela Pulido Borrell, a seasoned competitor, will also be one to watch, alongside Great Britain's rising talents Ella Geiger and Lily Young.
Men's competition - Riccardo Pianosi's moment?
Italy's Riccardo Pianosi, fresh off a strong fourth-place finish at the 2024 Olympic Games, arrives in Türkiye in excellent form after an impressive showing at Hyères. Can he replicate his 2023 European victory? With Austria's Valentin Bontus sidelined by injury, Pianosi has one less rival to worry about, but France's Axel Mazella, Singapore's Maximilian Maeder, and Brazil's Bruno Lobo are poised to challenge him.
Host Venue - Urla and the Pro Sailing Academy
Nestled close to Izmir, Urla is a scenic coastal town renowned for its ideal kiteboarding conditions, offering consistent winds and open waters. The Fenerbahçe Sports Club, in partnership with the Pro Sailing Academy, is hosting this prestigious event at its top-tier facilities. The academy, recognized as a hub for high-performance sailing training, has cultivated a strong reputation for preparing elite athletes. With world-class infrastructure and a commitment to excellence, the venue sets the stage for an unforgettable championship.
As the countdown begins, anticipation builds for what promises to be an electrifying competition. Who will rise, who will falter, and who will carve their name into history? The answers will unfold in Urla, Türkiye, from May 11 to 19, 2025.
Results will be updated live, racing will be tracked and the final days will be live streamed on FaceBook and YouTube.