Sa Dom’e Farra home museum hosted Sardinia Grand Slam opening ceremony Babini (IKA): “A true spectacle with the world’s best gearing up for LA 2028 Olympic campaign.” Qualifying Series start Tuesday, September 30th
The global spotlight turns to the Gulf of Angels as 97 athletes from 29 countries and 5 continents prepare to battle it out in the Formula Kite World Championships, officially opened today at the historic Sa Dom’e Farra home museum, marking the ninth edition of the Sardinia Grand Slam.
“This will be a week of high-level competition, with the best riders in the world preparing for the intense road to the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games,” said Mirko Babini, President of the International Kiteboarding Association (IKA), during the opening ceremony held Monday, September 29th. Racing begins Tuesday, September 30th, and will culminate on Sunday, October 5 with the Medal Series — quarterfinals, semifinals, and the Grand Final.
For the first time, Quartu Sant’Elena will host the spectacular kitefoil regattas, offering spectators the chance to witness riders speeding across the water with their vibrant sails. “It’ll be a show not to miss,” Babini added.
Though the Sardinia Grand Slam has moved from Cagliari to Quartu Sant’Elena, the competition remains in the iconic waters of the Gulf of Angels, with event logistics based at Blue Sky beach club along Poetto Beach.
Gian Domenico Nieddu, President of the organizing committee, expressed enthusiasm for the new venue:
“We’re thrilled about this new challenge. Athletes have already shown appreciation for the favorable conditions. A special thanks to the Municipality of Quartu Sant’Elena for embracing this opportunity with us.”
Representing the host city, Cinzia Carta, Councillor for Sports, highlighted the event’s broad community impact:
“We’re confident this championship will leave a positive legacy in our city, promoting the values of sport and inclusion. The event involves not just hospitality and local businesses, but also our schools — especially the Porcu-Satta Institute.”
The championship is organized by GLEsport, with technical support from Chia Wind Club, under the auspices of World Sailing, the International Kiteboarding Association (IKA), and the Italian Sailing Federation (FIV).
Event Schedule: Qualifying Series Start Tomorrow at 1:30 PM
After today’s practice race, the Qualifying Series kick off on Tuesday, September 30 at 1:30 PM. Daily racing will continue through Sunday, October 5th, when the Medal Series will determine the new world champions.
Favorable winds forecast for the week
Weather conditions look promising for the week ahead. Light breezes of just over 10 knots are expected on opening day, followed by a mild Mistral wind from Wednesday through Saturday — ideal conditions for kitefoiling.
Local schools and environmental action involved
Today’s presentation saw the participation of students from Istituto Comprensivo Porcu Satta, Sardinia’s first sports-oriented public school. Ten classes, totaling 220 students, are involved, with 40 third-year students (classes C, E, and F) directly taking part in activities at the championship village.
On Tuesday, September 30th, these students will also join a beach clean-up initiative in collaboration with Oikos, a local civic association, promoting environmental awareness alongside world-class sport.
Photo credits: Luigi Corda