
2024 SILVAPLANA
U23 WORLD
CHAMPIONSHIPS
Nestled in the beautiful Engadin Valley of Switzerland, Lake Silvaplana is renowned for its stunning natural beauty and ideal wind conditions, making it a prime destination for water sports enthusiasts. This year, it will, once again, hosts the iQFOiL Under 23 World Championships, bringing together the world's most talented young iQFOiLers.
With its crystal-clear waters and the majestic backdrop of the Swiss Alps, Lake Silvaplana offers a perfect blend of challenging race conditions and breathtaking scenery, promising an unforgettable experience for competitors and spectators alike.
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On this page you can find all the highlights, articles, photo's and more about the 2024 iQFOiL U23 World Championships !
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For official Notices and Results please press the button >
Photo Album
Sailing Energy photographers will capture countless moments during the 2024 iQFOiL U23 World Championships. To view and explore these photos, please visit our Class Photoshelter.
Using the search function, you can find specific pictures by name or sail number, or simply browse through all the event photos.
To download pics, use the password: sailors
For high-resolution downloads, please contact us at info@iqfoilclass.org

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DAILY HIGHLIGHTS

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Medal Races Series on Day 6 of iQFOiL International Games & U23 World Championships
The highly anticipated Medal Race Series of the iQFOiL International Games & U23 World Championships was unfortunately canceled today due to unpredictable and inconsistent wind conditions. Despite the excitement and tension leading up to the final day, the northerly wind on Lake Silvaplana proved too erratic in both strength and direction, making it impossible to hold a fair competition.
The Race Committee, prioritizing the integrity of the sport and the safety of the athletes, made the difficult decision to keep the sailors ashore. Rather than risk running races that could have been unfair due to the challenging wind conditions, the committee opted to preserve the fairness of the competition by canceling the final races.
This decision, while disappointing for competitors and spectators alike, reflects the unpredictable nature of windsurfing, especially in such a dynamic environment as Lake Silvaplana.
The week has seen incredible performances from the world’s best young iQFOiL sailors:
Andy Brown Dominates iQFOiL International Games as British Duo and Italian Prodigy Shine
In the thrilling conclusion of the iQFOiL International Games, it was Great Britain’s Andy Brown who emerged as the undisputed leader of the men’s competition. Brown's relentless determination and daily rallies propelled him to the top of the overall rankings, securing his place as the champion. Hot on his heels was his compatriot and training partner, Finn Hawkins, whose unwavering consistency since the start of the championship paid off with a well-deserved second place. Meanwhile, the exceptionally talented 17-year-old Leonardo Tomasini from Italy proved that age is just a number, clinching third place and making a strong statement that the future of iQFOiL racing is in good hands.
Not only did Finn Hawkins secure the runner-up spot in the overall rankings, but he also proudly claimed the title of U23 2024 World Champion! Right behind him, Leonardo Tomasini took home the silver in the U23 category, while New Zealand’s Eli Liefting rounded out the podium with a solid performance to earn third place.
Tamar Steinberg Celebrates Her 18th Birthday in Style with Victory in the Women's Category
Over in the women’s division, the spotlight was on the rising stars, with youth and talent stealing the show. Israel’s Tamar Steinberg, who fittingly celebrated her 18th birthday during the championship, delivered a masterclass in racing to claim the top spot. Steinberg’s impressive performance crowned her both the iQFOiL International Games winner and the U23 World Champion.
Following closely were Norway’s dynamic duo, Maya Gysler and Tuva Oppedal, who not only secured second and third places respectively but also demonstrated that fierce competition on the water doesn’t get in the way of strong friendships on land. Their camaraderie was as impressive as their skills, making them both rivals and best friends—a true testament to the spirit of what iQFOiL spirit is.
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Marathon Challenge Pushes Sailors to the Limit on Day 5 of iQFOiL International Games & U23 World Championships
The fifth day of the iQFOiL International Games & U23 World Championships brought with it one of the most demanding and anticipated events of the competition: the Marathon. This unique and demanding race is a true test of both physical endurance and mental fortitude, pushing athletes to their limits over the course of an hour.
The iQFOiL marathon is not just about speed; it's a strategic battle as well. The race consisted of five laps around the stunning but challenging Lake Silvaplana. With the lake's ever-changing wind pressure and direction, sailors had to navigate a constantly shifting tactical landscape, making every decision critical.
The competitors fought hard to maintain their pace and stay ahead of their rivals, the marathon proved to be an intense and exhilarating spectacle, showcasing what iQFOiL racing has to offer. With the combination of endurance, skill, and strategy, this race was a true highlight of the championships, setting the stage for an exciting conclusion to the event.
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As the competition heats up, the boys took to the track with determination, and it was Manolo MODENA (ITA) who stole the show. Displaying breathtaking speed and skill, Modena surged ahead, overtaking Andy BROWN (GBR). Despite this, Brown managed to hold onto his lead in the overall rankings, while fellow Brit Finn HAWKINS made his move, climbing up to third place just in time for the crucial Medal Race Series.
In the Girls' category, Kristyna PINOSOVA (CZE) proved to be in a league of her own. Dominating the day with remarkable ease, Pinosova secured her spot in the Quarter Finals, leaving her competitors in her wake. Behind her, the two Norwegians, Maya GYSLER and Tuva OPPEDAL, put up a strong fight, securing their positions in what promises to be an electrifying final showdown.
With the Medal Race Series on the horizon, the stage is set for a thrilling climax to the iQFOiL International Games & U23 World Championships. The leaders have been challenged, the rankings have shifted, and now, it’s anyone’s game.
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Exciting Fourth Day of Racing at Lake Silvaplana Raises the Stakes Ahead of Medal Race Series
Another spectacular day unfolded on Lake Silvaplana for the fourth day of racing at the iQFOiL International Games & U23 World Championships. The wind picked up early, setting the stage for an action-packed day on the water.
The athletes in the SILVER fleet were the first to hit the lake, tackling five intense rounds of racing as the breeze held steady. By 14:00, with the wind still strong, the WOMEN and GOLD fleet took to the start line, perfectly timed with the launch of the live feed operated by Aalvaa Media for the iQFOiL Class, bringing the thrilling action to audiences worldwide.
The afternoon saw five fiercely contested races, with the unique configuration of Lake Silvaplana challenging sailors with a series of tricky maneuvers and numerous crossings. The lake’s multiple small bays and shifting wind directions added an extra layer of complexity, testing the athletes’ skills and adaptability to the limit.
Tonight’s leader, Leonardo TOMASINI (ITA), summed up the day’s racing perfectly: “The races were really hard because this lake has a lot of very small bays with the wind going in a lot of different directions.”
As the event moves into the final day before the Medal Race Series, the tension is palpable. Every competitor is pushing hard to secure their place in the Top 10, knowing that tomorrow's races could make or break their chances at victory.
In the women’s category, Tamar STEINBERG (ISR) is proving unstoppable. Her fierce determination has catapulted her into the provisional overall lead, showing she’s a force to be reckoned with. But the battle is far from over—Maya GYSLER (NOR) is hot on her heels, staying firmly in the hunt for the top spot. Meanwhile, Daniela PELEG (ISR) holds strong in third, keeping the competition intense among the leading women.
Over in the men’s category, it’s the young prodigy Leonardo TOMASINI (ITA) who’s stealing the spotlight. At just 17, he’s making waves at the top of the rankings, showcasing maturity and skill beyond his years. Not far behind is Andy BROWN (GBR), who’s maintaining his position among the frontrunners, demonstrating consistency and resilience. Meanwhile, Max CASTELEIN (NED), the U21 World Champion of 2022, is still very much in the game, rounding out the top three.
With the competition tightening and the stakes rising, all eyes are on these top contenders as they navigate the final stretch of this thrilling championship. The race to the podium is far from decided, and the drama is only just beginning!
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Third Day of Racing at iQFOiL International Games & U23 World Championship Delivers Exciting Action
After a windless second day filled with outdoor activities in Silvaplana, the third day of racing at the iQFOiL International Games & U23 World Championship finally delivered on its promise, with no fewer than five races contested by both men and women in the Course Racing format.
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The men took to the water at 12:00, facing a wind that reached up to 18 knots. These conditions tested the racers’ nerves, with strategy playing a key role in navigating the often unpredictable gusts. The back-to-back races kept the sailors on their toes, making it a day of intense competition and tactical prowess.
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Following the men’s races, the women hit the course in a steadier wind. However, as the day progressed, the wind gradually died down, with variations in direction and intensity forcing every competitor to remain highly concentrated until the very end.
Lake Silvaplana, located at an altitude of 1,800 meters, added an extra layer of challenge for all the sailors. The high altitude means that the physical effort required quickly takes its toll, making stamina as crucial as skill in this demanding environment.
With the competition heating up, the sailors will need to dig deep in the coming days as they push towards the championship titles in these challenging yet exhilarating conditions.
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In the women's category, Norway's Maya GYSLER is riding high. With one heat victory under her belt and two solid second-place finishes, she's outpacing her competition and setting the standard for the fleet. Hot on her heels are two fierce Israeli challengers. Tamar STEINBERG is proving to be a formidable contender, showcasing relentless determination in every race, while Daniela PELEG is playing the long game, with her steady and consistent performance keeping her well within striking distance.
Over in the men’s race, it's Andy BROWN (GBR) who has stolen the spotlight. With two impressive heat wins, Brown has catapulted himself back into the forefront of the competition. But the battle is far from over, with Italy’s Leonardo TOMASINI and the Netherlands’ Joost VINK close behind, both eager to take their shot at the top spot.
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Thrilling First Day of Racing at the iQFOiL International Games and U23 World Championships in Silvaplana
The opening day of the iQFOiL International Games and U23 iQFOiL World Championships in Silvaplana delivered intense competition, with Lake Silvaplana living up to its reputation. The Maloja Wind, a local thermal breeze, kicked in as expected at noon, providing the perfect conditions for a full day of racing.
Despite the steady breeze, the wind remained tricky, requiring sailors to continuously adapt their strategies. With the wind speed hovering around 12 knots at the start of the afternoon, the race committee opted for slalom races, which continued until the end of the day.
In the fiercely contested boys' category, the leaderboard is tightly packed, with four sailors tied on points at the top: Finn HAWKINS (GBR), Max CASTELEIN (NED), Manolo MODENA (ITA), and Joost VINK (NED). Each athlete showed remarkable skill and determination, setting the stage for an exciting battle in the days ahead.
On the girls' side, Israeli sailor Daniela PELEG took an early lead, closely followed by Maya GYSLER (NOR) and Lola SORIN (FRA). The competition is fierce, and with several days of racing still to come, the fight for the top spot is far from over.
As the event continues, all eyes will be on Lake Silvaplana to see which sailors can maintain their momentum and who will emerge victorious in this prestigious competition.
And, for live updates, behind-the-scenes content, and exclusive insights, follow us on Instagram at @iqfoilclass.
Don’t miss a moment of the action!