IQFOIL LAST CHANCE QUALIFIER: HUGUENIN TAKES OVER AS THE MALOJA DELIVERS ANOTHER SPECTACULAR DAY
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Swiss rider moves into the overall lead while Abi Smith extends her dominance in the women's fleet
Silvaplana, Switzerland – August 26, 2026 – The legendary Maloja once again lived up to its reputation at the 2026 iQFOiL Last Chance Qualifier, delivering another outstanding day of racing on Lake Silvaplana as athletes continued their battle for the remaining places at the iQFOiL Senior World Championships in Weymouth.
With sunshine, strong thermal breeze and classic Engadin conditions, competitors were greeted with exactly what they had hoped for. As forecast, the Maloja delivered "smoke on the water," producing fast, demanding racing and another action-packed day in the Swiss Alps.
The Men's fleet remained incredibly competitive, with another new winner joining the list of race victors. France's Félix Dary bounced back after a difficult opening day, claiming two race victories to re-establish himself among the frontrunners.
The biggest change, however, came at the top of the overall standings. Poland's overnight leader Michał Maziarka was overtaken by Switzerland's Loïc Huguenin, who combined consistency with a race win in the final contest of the day to move into first place overall heading into the penultimate day of competition.
In the Women's fleet, Abi Smith continued to set the pace with a flawless performance, winning all five races sailed today and strengthening her grip on the overall lead. Behind her, Alexandra Lojinova remains the closest challenger in second place, while Arrianne Paz rounds out the provisional top three.
With the Maloja once again delivering ideal foiling conditions, the stage is set for another exciting day of racing in Silvaplana. As the Last Chance Qualifier approaches its conclusion, every race becomes increasingly important in the fight to secure a coveted place at the 2026 iQFOiL Senior World Championships.
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