The 10th edition of the Sardinia Grand Slam gets underway today, 7 October, out of the waters of Quartu Sant’Elena, Sardinia. Competing in the fastest discipline on the Olympic circuit, riders line up for the final international event of the year, taking advantage of ideal conditions and finish the 2026 season on a strong note before Olympic qualification starts in January 2027.
Celebrated by athletes for its ideal training conditions, pristine waters, and reliable thermal breezes in the Golfo degli Angeli, the venue has become an essential fixture on the international kitefoiling calendar. As tradition dictates, October brings top international talent in Formula Kite back to the waters of Quartu Sant’Elena, where from 7 to 11 October they will battle for the prestigious Sardinia Grand Slam titles.
© IKA media/Robert Hajduk
The men: Pianosi, Bontus and more
In the men’s field, a major focus for local fans is Italy’s Riccardo Pianosi, 21, a standout talent in the Italian national team. Fourth at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games and a multiple European and World Championship medalist, Pianosi enters as a crowd favorite on waters that hold deep personal meaning. Last year, he claimed the World title here in Golfo degli Angeli.
“It was a significant championship for my career, the first World title I had won. And this place has a special place in my heart,” Pianosi said. “I grew up here, I met my wife here, and I have had so many experiences in this sport here.”
One of Pianosi’s main rivals will be reigning Olympic champion Valentin Bontus of Austria, who also claimed World bronze and European silver during a hard-fought season. The men's fleet will also feature Czech sailor Vojtech Koska, Britain’s Sam Dickinson, alongside a strong pack of other international athletes aiming for the top spots.
© IKA media/Robert Hajduk
The women: Nolot’s dominance and top contenders
Third in Sardinia Grand Slam last year and Olympic silver medalist in Marseille, France’s Lauriane Nolot is coming off an almost perfect 2026 season, claiming both the World title in Viana do Castelo, Portugal, and the European title in Akyaka, Türkiye. She will be looking to put her name back on the Sardinia Grand Slam trophy, having previously won the event in 2021 and 2023.
© IKA media/Robert Hajduk
Among her main challengers will be Switzerland’s Elena Lengwiler, this year’s World and European bronze medalist. Also competing are Britain’s Lily Young, who finished fourth in these waters last year, and France’s Lysa Caval, alongside a strong pack of international riders all aiming for the podium.
© IKA media/Robert Hajduk
Follow the action
Racing takes place out of the waters of Quartu Sant’Elena from 7 to 11 October. On Saturday, 10 October and Sunday, 11 October, the Sardinia Grand Slam races will be streamed live on the IKA Youtube channel.
Follow the championship through IKA’s official social media channels, with daily updates, race highlights, and results available at www.kiteclasses.org
© IKA media/Robert Hajduk
