HVIDE SANDE, DENMARK A memorable week of racing in Hvide Sande came to a close on Saturday, as Nicolas Prien (GER-7) and Jenna Gibson (GBR-96) were crowned the 2026 IFCA Fin Slalom European Champions. 

The six-day championship brought together 59 athletes from 13 countries, with Men’s and Women’s fleets racing side by side in a wide range of conditions. From strong winds and challenging weather to lighter afternoon breezes, the competitors had to adapt throughout the week, making for a closely fought European Championship. 

In the Men’s fleet, Nicolas Prien delivered a dominant performance. The German sailor won 19 of his 21 heats, consistently setting the pace from the opening days and ultimately securing the European title. Taty Frans (NB-9) fought his way into second place, with Sacha Fortune (FRA-655) completing the podium. Brendan Lorho (FRA-113) finished fourth, followed by Jimmy Thiémé (FRA-888) in fifth. 

The Women’s Championship saw Jenna Gibson maintain her position at the top throughout the event. Her consistency across the championship secured the European title ahead of Justine Lemeteyer (FRA-171) and Mae Davico (FRA-203). Femke van der Veen (NED-2251) finished fourth, with Charlotte Philip (FRA-1194) taking fifth. 

A new qualifying format was introduced for the Men’s fleet during the championship, designed to provide more balanced heats and more opportunities for sailors to race their way into the main elimination rounds. As the week progressed, the competition became increasingly tight, with every result playing an important role in the overall standings. 

The final day on Saturday delivered one last opportunity to fight for positions.
After a light morning, the wind strengthened during the afternoon to around 12–16 knots, allowing the final races to be completed. With the last results confirmed, the 2026 IFCA Fin Slalom European Champions were crowned in Hvide Sande. 

Beyond the racing, Hvide Sande once again proved to be a special venue for the IFCA Class. The championship welcomed young talents alongside some of the most experienced sailors in the fleet, creating a unique atmosphere where Legends, Grand Masters, Masters, Youths and Juniors all came together and shared the race course. 

 

For the organizers, the event adds another chapter to Hvide Sande’s long-proven record of successfully hosting international windsurfing events.
The professional setup, welcoming atmosphere and commitment of the entire Waterz team and crew provided athletes with a memorable championship experience. 

With the 2026 IFCA Fin Slalom European Championships now complete, Hvide Sande brings the IFCA international season to a successful close. The year began in April with the Grand Slam Worlds in Leucate, France, where Fin and Foil sailors across all age divisions opened the championship season, followed in May by the Junior, Youth and Masters Europeans in Murcia, Spain, together with the first venue collaboration with the Iberian Cup. In July, the Senior Foiling Europeans in Sankt Peter-Ording, Germany, continued the international championship programme before the season reached its final chapter this week in Denmark. 

Congratulations to all competitors, and especially to the new 2026 IFCA Fin Slalom European Champions, Nicolas Prien and Jenna Gibson. 

 
By IFCA Management
images: Lukas K Stiller
video: Diogo Cardoso 

Event Gallery: https://photos.app.goo.gl/HUBxJhrwbegjAJgx6

Event Related Videos: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLHjWoR0y6VuU

Final Video HighLights: https://youtu.be/nqGdRDGLsh8?si=CGsc0I1Zalp4j7dL