The iQFOiL International Games in Lanzarote mark the official start of the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic cycle. With about 100 athletes representing 26 nations, the windy waters of the Canary Island are once again the perfect stage for this world-class competition. Known as a prime winter training destination for Olympic sailors, Lanzarote offers exceptional conditions all year round.
Today was practice session day, with fleets taking to the water in a steady 12 to 15-knot breeze. This served as the ideal test for the newly introduced equipment: 8-meter sails for the men and the 7.3-meter sails for the women, both designed to create a fairer and more balanced competition field.
The day began with an official press conference at Marina Rubicón in Playa Blanca, the proud host of the iQFOiL International Games. Local authorities expressed their enthusiasm about hosting this Olympic board event, joined by top athletes like Olympic Gold Medalist Marta Maggetti and reigning World Champion Nicolò Renna.
“I like Lanzarote, it is an island like Sardinia, where I am from, it has that special vibe”, says Olympic Champion Marta Maggetti. “The Olympic cycle starts here and we like to start with the new equipment with windy forecast for the week”.
“I won here last year because I have a special feeling with this place, it is great not only for sailing, but for cycling, surfing, anything..”, commented Nicolò Renna. “The new sail shouls suit me better, but of course this is only the beginning to the road to Los Angeles and in Italy there are so many young and strong competitors I will have to face, but having a high level of competition within your own team will just allow me to get better!”.
Marina Rubicón and iQFOiL continue to demonstrate a winning partnership, paving the way for many more successful events to come.
“We’re proud to host once again this incredible class, the iQFOiL have been here for a few years now and last year we had an amazing World Championship, so we are thrilled to go with them and to offer them what looks like a very windy competition”, concluded Rafael Lasso, Marina Rubicon CEO.
The stage is set, and the competition officially begins tomorrow. Stay tuned for more updates as the road to Los Angeles 2028 kicks off in spectacular fashion from Lanzarote.
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