Defi Wind 2026: Prien wins race no. 2, Iachino and Gibson in the lead

The second day of competition at the Defi Wind in Gruissan was furious start with up to 45 knots much more relaxed. Two more races were held, with Nico Prien taking victory in the first race ahead of Matteo Iachino. Jordy Vonk, who was in front after the first day, had a morning to forget in 60th place. Bruno Martini won the second race of the day, with Matteo Iachino again taking second place and the overall lead. Prien is in second place behind him.

Jenna Gibson dominated the women's competition with two more wins in the women's category. In the Unlimited classification, where riders can choose between Finn and Foil, the newly crowned Foil Speed World Champion Amado Vrieswijk came out on top. Justine Lemeteyer was in a class of her own in the women's competition, winning all three races.

Changing conditions challenge the participants

The morning race took place in moderate 25 to 28 knots. The choice of material proved to be a decisive factor, as cloud fields disturbed the otherwise steady Tramontana. In the afternoon, the wind picked up and reached 30 to 35 knots. Large wind shifts made the course particularly challenging for the second half of the field. Tight room sheet courses and tacks cost additional energy after 70 kilometres of racing.

The variety of equipment at Defi was impressive - from the latest high-tech equipment to equipment from the 1990s. Freeride boards, wave equipment and sails between 2.5 and 6.2 square metres were on display. The weather forecast for Saturday promises more good conditions in Gruissan. It may be possible to complete two more races, which would allow the worst result to be cancelled.

Windsurfer LT in defi setup

40 participants competed on the Windsurfer LT, the classic windsurfing longboardequipped with a special 4.7 square metre Defi sail. Luca Guiraud, former PWA foil racer, leads this old-school class. Former speed champion Christophe Pringuenon follows in second place.

The PWA announced a closer partnership with Defi to promote young talent. The top three finishers in the Under 20 and Under 17 classes in both the boys' and girls' categories will receive a wildcard. This entitles them to take part in the PWA Fuerteventura Slalom World Cup from 22 to 26 July or in one of the PWA youth slalom events this season.

All results are available at my.raceresult.com