Strong, steady breeze and a testing swell set the stage for a dramatic Medal Series at the Wingfoil Racing World Cup Sardinia, where Vaina Picot and Sean Herbert emerged victorious at this penultimate stop of the season.
On Sunday, 4th October 2026, the competition showcased fierce performances. In the women’s event, the quarter-final was claimed by 19-year-old freestyle specialist Viola Lippitsch, who defeated Anaïs Mai Desjardins to advance to the semi-finals. Greek rider Aimilia Kosti maintained her consistent performance to win her semi-final, securing a spot in the final alongside Germany’s Jette Koepe.
The final featured a nail-biting contest between Picot and defending World Cup champion Maddalena Spanu. Picot started closely matched with Spanu; however, Spanu lost her lead at the top mark, allowing Picot to break clear. Picot capitalised on this opportunity, extending her lead to secure her third World Cup victory of the season. “I’m so happy because it was really difficult with all the seaweed today which meant I had to jump a lot to clear it off my foil. But I’m very happy and now bring on Brazil!” said Picot.
In the men’s competition, top qualifiers Sean Herbert and Alessandro Tomasi began the final on equal footing. They were joined by Julien Rattotti and Michele Capitani, who had shown exceptional form throughout the day. Capitani, after a slow start, fought his way back into contention to lead at the third mark, ultimately taking the win in a memorable performance.
Rattotti, without a bullet to his name, chose to start alone on the right side of the course, a decision that paid off, allowing him to equal the scores and force a third and deciding race. In this final race, Herbert dominated despite having to use a smaller wing due to damage earlier in the competition. He won decisively, claiming his first World Cup title. “I’ve loved the conditions here,” Herbert said, reflecting on his victory. “It reminds me of sailing back home. Ales (Tomasi) has been sailing really well this year so to take my first World Cup win ahead of him is great. I’m really stoked.”
Picot now heads to the season finale in Brazil as the favourite to claim the World Cup crown from 2025 champion Spanu, while Tomasi’s runner-up finish solidifies his lead in the men’s series standings. The World Cup season finale will take place in Jericoacoara on Brazil’s north-east coast from 1-5 December.
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