France has achieved a remarkable feat by securing both the men’s and women’s titles at the Formula Wing European Championships in Naples, marking a dominant double gold success. Italy finished with two silver medals.
The final day of the competition featured a north-easterly breeze which inhibited the expected Neapolitan thermal winds. Consequently, race officials had to progressively cancel the races throughout the afternoon before declaring racing abandoned, allowing the existing leaderboard to stand.
Despite limited on-water action, the day was not without its excitement. The cancellation of the Golden Ticket race initially provided Italy’s Francesco Cappuzzo and Charlotte Baruzzi, who were both positioned 10th overall, a chance to enter the medal series. However, their opportunity vanished when the quarter-finals were also cancelled due to the persistent calm.
With 12 races completed in the women’s fleet and 13 in the men’s on preceding days, championship results were confirmed, triggering celebrations along the Naples waterfront, set against the stunning backdrop of Mount Vesuvius.
Women’s Title
France emerged as the standout nation of the regatta, claiming both European titles and a total of four medals. In the women’s competition, 16-year-old Vaina Picot delivered an extraordinary performance, becoming the youngest Formula Wing European champion. Picot dominated the series, winning nine of the 12 races despite challenging conditions. “I’m so happy. The conditions were super tricky all week but I managed to adapt well and that is very satisfying,” remarked Picot amidst celebratory moments with her family.
Defending champion Maddalena Spanu faced difficulties throughout the regatta but showcased commendable resolve to secure the silver medal.
Men’s Title
The men’s title was clinched by Julien Rattotti, whose victory was the result of diligent preparation over the winter. Rattotti exhibited remarkable consistency, finishing mostly within the top two placings, despite a minor dip in performance on the penultimate day. He now adds the Formula Wing European title to his Wave world title, expressing his disbelief and joy: “I need to stop for a moment, my brain can’t understand what’s happened. I’m so happy. I phoned my dad in Cannes. He said he had to rush home to tell all our friends!”
The home crowd celebrated a strong showing from 17-year-old Ernesto de Amicis, who claimed silver and made his family and city proud, saying, “It’s been fantastic that Naples has put on such a great show. My dad was involved in the organisation of this event and the Savoia yacht and rowing club have been a great host.”
France’s medal tally was further enhanced by bronze medals for Thomas Proust and Kylie Belloeuvre, highlighting the depth of talent within both fleets.
The event concluded with a medal ceremony on a warm spring evening along the seaside promenade, as the sun set beyond the island of Ischia. The international wingfoiling circuit will return to Italy in early July for the Wingfoil Racing World Cup in Gizzeria, Calabria, while action continues in countries such as Turkey and Switzerland.
Text Credits: IWSA Media
Photo Credits: IWSA Media / Robert Hajduk
Video Credits: ICARUS Sports
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