The Formula Wing European Championships have come to Naples for the first time, with Reale Yacht Club Canottieri Savoia hosting nearly 100 athletes from 16 nations gathered to do battle on the Bay of Naples – the same waters that will stage the America’s Cup in 2027.
As an Open event, competitors from across the globe have travelled to Italy, although only European riders are eligible to claim the continental title. The presence of top international names, including New Zealander Sean Herbert and Australian Grae Morris, ensures a high-quality fleet and fiercely competitive racing.
© IWSA media/Robert Hajduk
There is plenty for the Italian fans to cheer. Women’s champion Maddalena Spanu is back in action, targeting a third consecutive European crown. Speaking in the calm of the early morning while preparing her equipment, she said: “There’s a bit of pressure for sure, but I’m confident I can perform well in conditions here.” The Italian delivered a strong opening performance, excelling in the adrenalin-fuelled rabbit starts – where riders begin racing behind a speed boat – and carrying that form into the day’s four long-distance races. Spanu secured one victory and three second-place finishes to underline her title credentials.
In the men’s fleet, defending European champion Mathis Ghio of France arrived well prepared. Ghio said “I’ve spent a week here in Naples training and I feel I’ve understood the conditions so I’m pretty confident with my preparations going into this event.” Although long-distance racing has never been his strength, Ghio showed consistency with three top-ten finishes and is expected to come into his own when the sprint races begin.
Local hopes rest on 17-year-old Ernesto De Amicis, who is carrying Naples’ strongest medal ambitions. He said “I’m very proud that these Europeans are being held in my city. I know my friends and family will be on the beach to support me but it’s also a great chance to show the other riders around Naples and all the great things there are to do here”.
The teenager showed no signs of pressure, delivering three top-five finishes to sit third overall at the end of the opening day.
© IWSA media/Robert Hajduk - Julien Rattotti (FRA) heads out to the racecourse on Day 1
However, Day 1 ultimately belonged to France. Julien Rattotti dominated proceedings with three consecutive race victories. He was ebullient afterwards, saying “It’s so satisfying. I worked so hard over the winter. I did so much training but today everything worked well and it feels unbelievable. This is all down to hard work”.
Equally impressive was the diminutive 16-year-old Vaina Picot, who also claimed three race wins. “These are the conditions I like. It’s light and thermal and I know I can do well in these conditions”.
With light winds expected to continue, the stage is set for more tactical racing – and plenty more drama – as the championship unfolds over the next four days in Naples.
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© IWSA media/Robert Hajduk - Vaina Picot (FRA) celebrates three wins from four races on Day 1
