2026 Formula Wing European Championships: New Zealand duo impress as Sean Herbert denied podium, Kosta Gladiadis 11th in Naples

New Zealand’s wingfoiling talent made a strong statement on the international stage at the Formula Wing European Championships in Naples, with Sean Herbert narrowly missing the podium and Kosta Gladiadis just outside the top 10 in a fiercely contested regatta dominated by France.

Herbert finished fifth overall — just nine points shy of bronze — after a consistent series that underlined his status as one of the sport’s leading forces. The Kiwi star notched five top-three finishes across the week, including two early race wins in qualifying, putting himself firmly in contention from the outset.

However, despite his consistency, Herbert was unable to reel in eventual champion Julien Rattotti, who led the regatta from start to finish and proved untouchable at the top of the standings.

Sean Herbert finished nine points shy of the medal podium in Naples. Photos / IWSA Media

Herbert’s performance was matched by an equally encouraging showing from compatriot Gladiadis, who finished 11th overall and placed third in the under-19 division. Gladiadis pushed into the top tier during qualifying, recording a best finish of fourth, and fell one point short of a top-10 result.

The strong Kiwi results came in a regatta ultimately defined by French dominance, with the nation claiming both the men’s and women’s European titles and four medals overall.

Racing on the final day was abandoned due to unstable wind conditions on the Bay of Naples, meaning results from earlier races stood. That left Herbert just outside the podium, a frustrating but promising outcome given his pace throughout the competition.

Kosta Gladiadis was 11th overall and the third under-19 competitor. Photos / IWSA Media

In the women’s fleet, France’s Vaina Picot delivered a standout performance, winning nine of 12 races to become the youngest European champion. Italy’s Maddalena Spanu secured silver after battling through challenging conditions.

Back in the men’s fleet, Rattotti’s consistency proved decisive, while Italy’s Ernesto de Amicis claimed silver to the delight of the home crowd.

Final results and standings here.