Young German World Champion’s withdrawal leaves title fight wide open at Freestyle decider in Ilha do Guajiru
GKA Freestyle Kite World Cup Brazil
21-24 October, 2026 | Ilha do Guajiru
The world’s best Freestyle kiteboarders head to Brazil for the decisive final stop of the GKA Freestyle World Cup year, where the 2026 world champions will be crowned after a season-long battle between the leading riders.
For the first time the wide lagoon, flat waters and steady winds of Ilha do Guajiru will provide the stage for the final showdown, with every heat carrying added significance as the contenders fight for the ultimate prize.
In the men’s fleet, the reigning world champion Germany’s Finn Flügel, 17, has withdrawn at the last moment, leaving the title race wide open.
Flügel claimed his first world title last season in Brazil and was in a strong position to defend his crown. He won the first stop of the season in Nuevo Nayarit, Mexico, and finished third on home waters in Borkum, Germany to leave him on equal points to Switzerland’s Maxime Chabloz
Chabloz, a former world champion, is now in pole position to reclaim the title. He began his season with a third place in Mexco, but roared back with the win in Germany, and sits top of the rankings after Flügel’s withdrawal.
Brazil’s rising star, Davi Ribeiro, is now ranked number three heading to Ilha do Guijaru after coming second in Germany. His home fans will definitely be cheering on the teenager who has been threatening to breakthrough for several years.
Italy’s Matteo Dorotini, France’s Arthur Guillebert, ranked number two, Egypt’s Karim Mahmood and Italy’s Gianmaria Coccoluto are among the established names who will be looking to disrupt Chabloz’s progress. It will no doubt make for a compelling climax to the Freestyle season.
Another intriguing prospect is the return of former world champion, Brazil’s Carlos “Bebe” Mario, who makes his comeback to competition for the first time in several seasons
In the women’s fleet, Brazil’s Bruna Kajiya arrives in a commanding position after winning both of the season’s opening stops. The reigning world champion has been in formidable form and will be looking to complete a clean sweep of the 2026 tour with another victory on home waters.
Spain’s Claudia León has finished second behind Kajiya at both events so far and will be determined to turn the tables in Brazil. With the world title on the line, León will need a strong performance to challenge the Brazilian’s unbeaten run.
Poland’s Martyna Konkel and Italy’s Naïs Balbinot are among those looking to make their mark in the final standings. Germany’s Kaya Lehmann and Italy’s Francesca Bagnoli sit further down the rankings after missing the opening Mexico stop, but asserted their skill with third and fourth places respectively in Germany.
The final stop of the season brings together the world’s top Freestyle talent for one last test of technical skill, creativity and consistency. With the men’s title finely balanced and Kajiya looking to seal another world crown, Ilha do Guajiru is set for a decisive finish to the 2026 GKA Freestyle World Cup.
words: Ian MacKinnon
images: Svetlana Romantsova
Event information
- Location: Ilha do Guajiru
- Dates: 21-24 October, 2026
- All event information here.
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Spot Info: Ilha do Guajiru
Weather
In October, Ilha do Guajiru on Brazil’s northeastern coast is typically hot, sunny and dry, with daytime temperatures around 30–32°C and warm nights. Rainfall is generally low at this time of year, with long sunny days and conditions well suited to spending hours on the water. Sea temperatures are warm, around 28°C, making boardshorts and a rash vest suitable for most riders.
Wind
October falls within the peak wind season in Ceará, when consistent northeast trade winds blow along the coast. Winds commonly reach 22–30 knots, with stronger spells possible, making it one of the most reliable periods of the year for kiteboarding. The Ilha do Guajiru lagoon is renowned for its shallow, flat water, providing excellent conditions for Freestyle competition. Water levels vary with the tides, which can influence the available riding area and the quality of the conditions.