Martinique emerges as a global hub for wingfoil with international race: Martinique Wing Adventure
by Média Relais 24 Feb 09:29 PST
22-28 February 2026
The Caribbean island of Martinique has entered a new era in international watersports with the launch of the first official Martinique Wing Adventure, a long-distance wingfoil race that is already attracting global attention.
From February 22 to 28, sixteen elite riders from Europe and the Caribbean are competing along the island's coastline in one of the most demanding formats in modern wingfoiling: long-distance racing combined with technical coastal navigation and wave riding.
Organized by the WIND Force Sailing Club, the event positions Martinique as a serious contender on the international wingfoil calendar.
A high-level sporting platform
The competition is overseen by Didier Flamme, an internationally experienced race director with more than 30 years of involvement in French and international sailing competitions. Several members of the French National Wingfoil Team 2026 are taking part, including:
- Bastien Escofet
- Julien Rattotti
- Kalie Belloeuvre
Their presence confirms the sporting credibility of the event and its appeal to top-level athletes.
"Martinique offers something very rare: the ability to combine race, freestyle, wave riding, and long-distance formats in one location," explains Sylvain René-Corail, President of WIND Force.
A spectacular opening
The event officially opened on Sunday, February 22, with a press conference and technical briefing, followed by a prologue in the Bay of Le Robert. This first race immediately revealed the high level of competition and the variety of conditions riders would face throughout the week.
"The prologue already showed strong commitment and great energy among the riders," says Bruno Lecomte, Technical Director of WIND Force.
A demanding first stage
On Monday, February 23, competitors tackled the first major stage between Le Robert and Grand-Rivière. The route proved extremely selective, with strong currents and large fields of sargassum seaweed challenging navigation, particularly near the Caravelle Peninsula.
"It was a very technical race. Some riders had to jump over seaweed banks to keep speed," explains Lecomte. "Bastien Escofet managed it exceptionally well."
Despite two withdrawals, most riders completed the course within two hours, demonstrating the high physical and technical demands of the discipline.
A unique connection with nature
After arriving in Grand-Rivière, riders were offered accommodation at the local sports hall. Many chose instead to camp directly on the beach, facing the ocean. Under the stars, surrounded by lush vegetation and dramatic landscapes, they experienced a moment that reflects the spirit of the event: performance combined with respect for nature. Wingfoil, here, is not only about speed—it is about freedom, endurance, and connection with the environment.
Emerging local talent
The Martinique Wing Adventure also highlights the development of young Caribbean athletes. Among them, Alexandre Dongard stood out for his determination. Despite finishing outside the official time limit, he completed the entire first stage.
"He never gave up. That's real character," notes Bruno Lecomte.
His performance reflects the event's long-term ambition: developing local talent through exposure to international competition.
Sport meets tourism
Supported by the Martinique Tourism Committee, the event seamlessly blends high-level sport with destination promotion. Throughout the race, riders discover the island's diversity: mangroves, cliffs, coral islets, tropical rivers, and iconic landmarks such as Diamond Rock. Cultural and social moments are also integrated into the program, including river bathing, local cuisine, beach barbecues, and exchanges with local communities.
Key highlights ahead
Several major moments are still to come:
- February 24: Arrival at the islets of Le Robert
- February 27: Tour of Diamond Rock
- February 28: Final regatta in Le Robert Bay
Each stage further showcases Martinique's exceptional potential for international watersports events.
A long-term vision
For the organizing team, this first edition is only the beginning.
"Our ambition is to make Martinique a permanent stop on the international wingfoil circuit," says René-Corail. "The feedback from riders confirms we are on the right path."
With its rare combination of technical waters, strong winds, warm climate, and logistical expertise, Martinique is positioning itself as a new global destination for wingfoil competition and training.