Elite fleet gathers for the 2026 Formula Wing European championship
From 8–12 April 2026 Naples, Italy takes centre stage as it hosts the IWSA Formula Wing European Championship, a World Sailing International Class event set to bring together the very best of this fast-rising discipline.
With over 100 riders from 16 nations and competitors travelling from four continents thanks to its ‘Open’ status, these championships promise a truly international contest. While only European sailors are eligible for the continental title, the depth of the fleet ensures fierce competition across the board.
The Gulf of Naples provides an iconic backdrop, not least because these same waters are set to host the America’s Cup in 2027.
Stars to watch
Local interest will center on Ernesto De Amicis, the 17-year-old Neapolitan who has already built an impressive list of youth titles including the 2025 Youth World Championship and consecutive Youth European titles. Competing on home waters, this regatta could mark his arrival as a senior contender.
In the women’s fleet, 16-year-old Vaina Picot of France and Poland’s Karolina Kluszczynka are among the leading names, while Italy will look to reigning world champion Maddalena Spanu to spearhead its challenge.
The men’s competition features proven champions, including France’s Mathis Ghio, winner of the last four World Cup titles and Poland’s Kamil Manowiecki, a two-time World Cup silver medalist.
Adding further depth is Australia’s Grae Morris, Olympic silver medalist in IQFoil at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, highlighting the growing crossover appeal between foiling disciplines.
Strong Italian line-up
Italy fields a deep and competitive squad, including Nico Spanu, Alessandro Tomasi and Francesco Cappuzzo, alongside emerging local talents such as Andrea and Lorenzo Gribaudo and Pietro Gelso.
Tension is building
Formula Wing is a strict one-design class, meaning all riders compete on identical equipment. With no technological advantage to be gained, the championship becomes a pure test of race-craft between athletes.
With consistent spring conditions, a world-class fleet and a format that rewards pure ability, the Formula Wing European Championship in Naples is poised to be full of close racing.
