Mathis Ghio (FRA) and Maddalena Spanu (ITA) impressively secured victory at the first WingFoil Racing World Cup of the season in Dakhla, Morocco. The African season opener was not only a first for the continent, but also a strong signal from the title contenders.
Ghio trembles briefly, but then triumphs
For three-time World Cup champion Mathis Ghio, the path to the title seemed clear at first – but a rare crash in the first final heat brought tension into the race. The Frenchman had to go into an all-decisive second race against the strong Pole Kamil Manowiecki, who promptly struck and won the heat.
But Ghio showed nerves of steel: after a change of equipment (adjustment of the foil rake), he returned to the water with full determination – and secured the overall title with a commanding victory. Manowiecki once again had to settle for second place, but is likely to be eager for revenge in the upcoming events.
A highlight of the event: Julien Rattotti (FRA) fought his way up from 9th place in the repechage to 4th place overall after a weak qualification – and although he says he is not a fan of strong winds. An impressive race to catch up with a lot of bite.
Spanu dominates women’s field
In the women’s race, the roles were even more clearly defined: Maddalena Spanu gave the competition no chance and won all the races. The Italian, who came second in the overall standings last year, was in top form – even though reigning world champion Nia Suardiaz was not at the start in Dakhla.
However, Spanu will not only have to wait for Suardiaz, but also keep an eye on the up-and-coming talents: The young Greek Emilia Kosti impressed with a strong second place, while Anais Mai Desjardins (FRA), an ex-kitesurfer, caused a sensation with her wingfoil premiere and took third place.
Results at a glance
Men – Top 10:
1st Mathis Ghio (FRA)
2. Kamil Manowiecki (POL)
3rd Nicolo Spanu (ITA)
4th Julien Rattotti (FRA)
5th Francesco Cappuzzo (ITA)
6th Oscar Leclair (FRA)
7th Alessandro Jase Tomasi (ITA)
8th Jeremiah McDonald (NZL)
9th Bastien Escofet (FRA)
10th Romain Ghio (FRA)
Ladies – Top 10:
1st Maddalena Maria Spanu (ITA)
2nd Emilia Kosti (GRE)
3rd Anais Mai Desjardins (FRA)
4th Iset Segura Santaeularia (ESP)
5th Vaina Picot (FRA)
6. Karolina Kluszczynska (POL)
7th Katarzyna Trautman (POL)
8th Charlotte Baruzzi (ITA)
9th Cindy Robert-Mauron (SUI)
10th Aabir Ouabou (MAR)
Africa premiere with future potential
With constant strong winds and a fantastic backdrop, Dakhla provided a stage that did justice to the World Cup – and proved that Africa is ready for more wingfoil racing. A total of 43 riders took to the start line and delivered an event full of emotion, surprises and international flair.
Here are a few great impressions:
Next stops in the World Cup Series
– Formula Wing Europeans – May 20-24, 2025, Urla (Turkey)
– World Cup Switzerland – June 11-15, 2025, Silvaplana
The favorites are set – but the wind can change at any time. Wingfoil fans can look forward to an exciting season.
Photos © IWSA Media / Robert Hajduk
