LIGHT WINDS, BIG NAMES: iQFOiL EUROPEANS KICK OFF IN SICILY
The 2025 iQFOiL Senior European Championship officially began today on the stunning Sicilian coast of Sferracavallo, with over 140 athletes from 35 nations lining up for a shot at the continental title.
Hosted by Circolo Velico Sferracavallo in partnership with the Italian Sailing Federation and the International iQFOiL Class Association, the event promises a week of high-speed foiling, intense rivalries, and elite competition in one of Italy’s most scenic sailing venues.
Expectations were high across the fleet as competitors headed out for the first day of racing. With light but promising conditions early on, both the Men’s and Women’s fleets managed to complete one race each before the wind began to shift and fade, forcing the race committee to call it a day.
In the Men’s fleet, Frenchman Nicolas Goyard (FRA) opened his championship campaign in style, securing the first bullet of the event and topping the rankings after Day 1. Behind him the Italian U23 Manolo Modena and Rytis Jasiunas (LTU). The other battery of the men’s fleet was won by Olympic Champion Tom Reuveny, who also made a strong opening statement despite the unpredictable breeze, in second Nicolò Renna (ITA), bronze medalist at the 2025 Worlds in Aarhus, and in third the reigning European Champion Paweł Tarnowski (POL).
“Today we did just one race for the blue fleet and also for the yellow fleet. It was a little shifty but it was fun and I am pleased to have finished second. Let’s hope for some more action tomorrow”, commented Nicolò Renna (ITA).
In the Women’s fleet, Daniela Peleg claimed the day’s only race win, with Germany’s Theresa Steinlein close behind in second and Sara Wennekes (NED) in third.
“We just did one race, but we had very nice waves and some gusty winds, so it was very fun. I was leading until the last gate, and then I lost it because I didn’t see a gust. It is a bit annoying to not win, but I know I can be there, and I’m very looking forward for the next days”, commented Theresa Steinlein.
While the wind didn’t deliver the full program today, the forecast looks promising for the coming days. With a strong international field and multiple disciplines yet to be contested, the battle for the European crown is only just beginning.
EVENT AT A GLANCE
Where: Sferracavallo, Palermo, Italy
When: 22-29 November 2025
Who: 141 athletes from 36 nations
Follow: www.instagram.com/iqfoilclass/ and YouTube
Website: https://iqeuropeans2025italy.sailti.com/en/default/races/race
Entry List: https://iqeuropeans2025italy.sailti.com/en/default/races/race-inscriptions
