News

Porto Cervo, 29 September 2025. The inaugural Formula Wing World Championship, which also counts towards the WingFoil Racing World Cup, concluded yesterday in Cagliari. Among the 20 female athletes competing was Maddalena Spanu from the Yacht Club Costa Smeralda's Young Azzurra programme, who claimed the world title, finishing ahead of France's Vaina Picot and Greece's Aimilia Kosti.

The event, part of the Sardinia Sailing Cup, was organised by the Italian Sailing Federation and ran from 23 to 28 September. Competitors faced variable weather conditions, ranging from light breezes to strong Mistral winds, allowing organisers to complete 19 qualifying races across both long and short courses.

Throughout the qualifying races, Maddalena consistently dominated the fleet, handling less than favourable conditions, such as light winds, while remaining composed and focused. The talent and determination of the 18-year-old athlete from Oristano were once again fundamental in securing her a place in the Medal Series, where just one race win would guarantee her victory in the Formula Wing World Championship.

It was in the second race of the Medal Series that Maddalena crossed the finish line ahead of her rivals, earning her the title of Formula Wing World Champion, in the first-ever championship organised by the class.

“When I crossed the finish line, it was pure joy. I ran to my father and thought, ‘I did it!’” commented Maddalena Spanu. “This victory belongs to everyone around me. I’m delighted with this result, it's difficult to explain how I feel. It was a very competitive leg with so many participating, and every mistake could have cost us dearly, as the standings were so tight. Winning the world championship here in Cagliari, in such variable conditions, was special. I want to thank everyone who supported me during this season. Their encouragement was fundamental, especially in the most difficult moments.”

The Young Azzurra athlete adds the first Formula Wing World Championship crown to her growing list of achievements, which already includes the European WingFoil Racing Championship title she secured last May. She currently leads the World Cup rankings heading into the final leg, scheduled for the first week of December in Brazil.

The YCCS congratulates Maddalena Spanu on this outstanding result.