S’porean kitefoiler Maximilian Maeder wins 2024 Formula Kite European Championships

SINGAPORE: Maximilian Maeder, the reigning Formula Kite world champion hailing from Singapore, added another illustrious accolade to his name by emerging triumphant at the Formula Kite European Championships held in Spain on Sunday (24 March).

Facing stiff competition from seasoned rivals such as France’s Axel Mazella and Italy’s Riccardo Pianosi, the 17-year-old prodigy showcased his unparalleled skill and resilience to reclaim the crown he last seized two years ago.

France’s Axel Mazella and Italy’s Riccardo Pianosi finished second and third respectively.

Reflecting on his momentous victory, Maximilian Maeder expressed his elation and gratitude in a video shared by the International Kiteboarding Association on their social media platforms.

“Just wow. I can’t put it into words. I mean, every time the racing is so exciting and so close and so fun,” he remarked, exuding a blend of humility and exuberance.

“How could you not enjoy something like this? And to come up on top, oh it’s so sweet and hats off to all the competitors, they made it very thrilling and it was really hard for me as well so I hope you enjoyed it as much as I did.”

This triumph marks Maeder’s second conquest of the European title, having clinched the same accolade in Greece two years prior.

His absence from last year’s edition, attributable to his commitments at the Asian Games, did little to diminish his resolve or prowess.

The victory in Spain adds to a string of remarkable achievements for the teen.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Int. Kiteboarding Association (@kiteclasses)

In August 2023, Maeder secured the gold medal in the men’s kite event at the Sailing World Championships held in the Netherlands, thereby securing a quota spot for Singapore at the 2024 Paris Olympics.

His stellar performance was further highlighted by his third consecutive triumph at the Formula Kite Youth World Championships and a gold medal at the prestigious Asian Games hosted in China.

Kitefoiling is a water sport that combines kiteboarding and hydrofoiling.

It involves using a kite and a board with a hydrofoil, which lifts the board out of the water as speed increases, allowing the rider to glide smoothly above the water. It’s a fast-paced and dynamic sport.