Champions Crowned in Taíba: Flügel and Kajiya Claim 2025 Freestyle Kite World Titles

Champions Crowned in Taíba: Flügel and Kajiya Claim 2025 Freestyle Kite World Titles

Taíba once again proved why it’s the world’s ultimate freestyle battleground, hosting three electrifying days of high-wind battles, flawless riding, and breakthrough performances as Bruna Kajiya and Finn Flügel claimed the 2025 world titles.

GKA Freestyle Kite World Cup Taíba 2025
12 – 15 November, 2025 | Taíba

The GKA Freestyle World Cup Taíba 2025 delivered three unforgettable days of world-class action in Brazil’s premier freestyle arena. Known globally as the ultimate training ground, the Taíba lagoon provided the perfect backdrop for the season finale — steady winds, flat water, and a charged atmosphere that pushed riders to their limits.

Competition opened with ideal conditions and an electric crowd as the world’s best freestylers showcased what they’ve been preparing for all year.

Day one saw local talent Davi Ribeiro light up the lagoon with the highest single trick score of the day — a 9.47-point Backside 319. Rising star Finn Flügel advanced directly to Round 3, while Arthur Guillebert stole the early spotlight with the top overall score of 32.83. Current world champion Maxime Chabloz also delivered a clean, high-powered opening performance to move through, alongside Leo Verecchia, Valentin Garat, Karim Mahmoud, and Gianmaria Coccoluto.

The women’s field matched the men’s intensity. Claudia León put down a strong 26.63 to start her campaign, Francesca Bagnoli showed power in her runs, and reigning world champion Bruna Kajiya closed the day with a commanding 31.24 — a flawless, crash-free performance that set the tone for the event.

Day two brought high tension as the final spots for the semifinals were claimed. Local favorite Erick Anderson advanced with a confident performance, while a last-minute KGB7 from Finn Flügel stole the heat and sent him through. Arthur Guillebert, Matteo Dorotini, Karim Mahmoud, Valentin Garat, Maxime Chabloz, and Gianmaria Coccoluto all secured their places in the men’s semifinals.

On the women’s side, Sabrina Lutz continued her strong form, Ananda Gamio impressed with remarkable composure in her debut season, and Martyna Konkel and Alina Ungeheur completed the semifinal lineup.

With eight men and eight women confirmed, all eyes turned toward a massive final day — the decisive moment for the 2025 World Titles.

Finals day delivered one of the most spectacular displays of freestyle kiteboarding the tour has seen.

Women’s Showdown

In the semifinals, Francesca Bagnoli advanced with confidence, while Sabrina Lutz earned the final spot in a dramatic last-trick shootout. Reigning champion Bruna Kajiya dominated her semifinal as Claudia León continued a powerful return from injury.

The women’s final unfolded before a packed beach. Bruna delivered a flawless, unbeatable heat, highlighted by a historic 9.5-point Pete Rose 5 — the first ever landed in women’s competition.
She secured the 2025 GKA Freestyle World Championship, with León taking second, Bagnoli third, and Lutz fourth.

Men’s Battle for the Crown

The men’s semifinals were equally fierce. Italians Matteo Dorotini and Gianmaria Coccoluto advanced from a heated first semi, while Maxime Chabloz and Finn Flügel earned their spots in the final — Chabloz with a perfect 10-point Backmobe 9 and Flügel with a powerful comeback performance.

The men’s final was one of the most high-level heats ever witnessed in Taíba. Four former or current title contenders — Chabloz, Coccoluto, Dorotini, and Flügel — delivered nonstop clean tricks with incredible height and execution. At the midway mark, not a single crash had been recorded.

As pressure built in the final round, Flügel seized the moment, stomping a massive KGB 9 to take the lead. Despite one final opportunity each, none of the other riders could surpass his score.

Finn Flügel claimed the 2025 GKA Freestyle Kite World Championship, capping off a breakout performance and one of the most memorable finals in recent years.

A Landmark Event in the Freestyle Calendar

Perfect conditions, dramatic heats, historic tricks, and standout performances defined the GKA Freestyle World Cup Taíba 2025. The lagoon once again proved why it is the world’s premier freestyle battleground — and why this finale will be remembered for years to come.

Final Results Freestyle Kite World Cup Taíba 2025:

Men:

1st: Finn Flügel (GER)

2nd: Matteo Dorotini (ITA)

3rd: Maxime Chabloz (SUI)

Women:

1st: Bruna Kajiya (BRA)

2nd: Claudia León (ESP)

3rd: Francesca Bagnoli (ITA)