2026 Formula Wing Youth World Championships: Kosta Gladiadis claims silver again as New Zealand wingfoiler backs up world championship result
New Zealand wingfoiler Kosta Gladiadis has defended his silver medal at the Formula Wing Youth World Championships in Switzerland, backing up the result he delivered at last year's edition in Azores, Portugal.
The 18-year-old from Manly Sailing Club finished runner-up to Italy's Ernesto De Amicis after qualifying second overall to earn direct entry into the grand final of the medal series. De Amicis, who had dominated the regatta from the opening day, sealed his second Youth World Championship title with victory in the deciding race. Gladiadis crossed in second to claim silver for New Zealand, with Italy's Michele Capitani rounding out the podium in third.
Although De Amicis had built a commanding 21-point lead through the qualifying series, the standings were reset for the knockout medal series, where the world title was decided by head-to-head racing. The format was further condensed on the final day — riders progressing directly to the semifinals and finals after deteriorating weather curtailed the scheduled racing.
Kosta Gladiadis claimed silver at the Youth World Championships in Switzerland. Photos / Robert Hajduk, IWSA Media
The result caps a remarkable few months for Gladiadis, who has rapidly established himself among the sport's brightest young talents. Earlier this year he finished third in the under-19 division at the Formula Wing European Championships in Naples, impressed again in Türkiye, and broke into the top 10 at the WingFoil Racing World Cup in Silvaplana before delivering another standout performance on the world stage.
"What an end to two tough weeks of competition," Gladiadis said. "The final didn't go my way, which is a tough pill to swallow, but I'm proud of the effort I put into the event.
"Massive congratulations to Ernesto for taking the win and Michele for third — both were well deserved. And a big thank you to my sponsors and everyone who supported me throughout. I couldn't have done it without them."
Gladiadis has now secured second place at back-to-back events. Photos / Robert Hajduk, IWSA Media
Gladiadis next competes at the WingFoil Racing World Cup in Gizzeria, Italy, from July 8–12.
Final results and standings here.
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