Defi Wind 2026: Nico Prien and Jenna Gibson win on the Finn, Amado Vrieswijk and Justine Lemteyer win overall

After several years in the doldrums, the Tramontana showed its relentless side at the 24th edition of the Defi Wind in Gruissan. Five long-distance races, each around 40 kilometres long, were held in sometimes merciless gales, with virtually the entire world's top racing riders taking part. Nico Prien came out on top in the Fin category with two victories. "This is by far the biggest win of my career and I've waited so long for this," Nico shouted on Instagram. "I honestly couldn't be happier right now!"

His toughest rival Matteo Iachino took second place three times and fourth place once, which was not enough for overall victory in the end. "I made a few mistakes in the last two races, but I'm very happy with my speed and my performance," commented Iachino on the result. With Jordy Vonk, Bruno Martini, Pierre Mortefon and Nico Prien, there were a total of four different winners in the Finn class. Jenna Gibson put in a flawless performance in the women's class, winning every single race. France's Mae Davico followed in second place behind the dominant Gibson. Femke Van Der Veen from the Netherlands secured third place.

Vrieswijk wins four out of five foil races

In the Unlimited category, the athletes were allowed to switch between fin and foil. Amado Vrieswijk from Bonaire, together with the Frenchman Alexis Mathis and the Greek John Soukos, opted exclusively for the foil - even in more than 40 knots of Tramontana storm on the opening day. Vrieswijk's courage was rewarded, winning four of the five races in his category. "What an incredible event! A fantastic atmosphere, extreme conditions and unforgettable races from start to finish!" he said afterwards. Mathis secured second place overall ahead of Soukos. In the women's category Justine Lemeteyer and Blanca Alabau took a mixed approach, switching between fin and foil depending on the conditions. The reigning foil world champion Lemeteyer came out on top in the end. Alabau took second place, followed by Lola Brotschi in third. "This is a childhood dream come true," said a delighted Lemeteyer.

Thousands of amateurs at the biggest Pro-Am event

This year's Defi Wind once again fascinated with its unique combination of professional competition and popular sporting event. The French name means challenge - and that is exactly what the event offers on several levels, from the race for victory, against friends or against yourself.

In addition to the professional categories, the Defi Wind also provided a stage for young riders. Bobby-Lynn De Jong secured victory in the girls' U17 class. Her sisters Kit and Lone De Jong completed a remarkable triple success for the family in second and third place. Gaetan Obin triumphed in the U16 boys' category ahead of Alexandre Levalois and Alexis Litou. The U20 categories were won by Lola Brotschi-Eibel in the girls' category and Ulysse David in the boys' category. All winners received wildcards for PWA events. In the windsurfer LT class, Luca Guiraud came out on top ahead of Christophe Pringuenon and Leerdam Arjan. Next year's 25th anniversary edition promises more unforgettable moments on and off the water.

All results of the Defi 2026 are available at my.raceresult.com