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  • FIRST VICTORY FOR K-CHALLENGE BLUE AT THE GRAND PRIX ECOLE NAVALE

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    For the very first time, the ETF26 SERIES made a stop in Brest as part of the prestigious Grand Prix de l’École Navale, held from May 28 to 31. Set in the heart of the French Navy’s military academy, this technical and challenging racecourse delivered four days of intense racing and spectacular sailing for the seven competing teams.

    Each day featured five back-to-back races, adding up to a total of 20 high-adrenaline races in conditions that, though variable, proved ideal for foiling catamarans. The water was, at times, “flat as a pool table,” according to Olympic double medallist Camille Lecointre (sailing aboard K-Challenge White), providing the perfect runway for foiling battles.

    The GPEN 2025 will also be remembered for its exceptional level of competition. Over the first three days, the scoreboard was incredibly tight—just three points separated the top three teams. Blueshift Sailing Team, led by Charles Dorange and Henri Demesmaker, started strong, dominating early races with impressive consistency.

    But in the final two days, it was K-Challenge Blue, helmed by Quentin Delapierre, who executed a remarkable comeback to secure the overall win.

    “I’m really happy to be back at GPEN—my first time here was in a J80 and I’ve done quite a few since then. The conditions this week were just amazing. Our goal was to win on this circuit, and we knew we had to stay fully focused because the level around us is incredibly high. Taking the win just before the SailGP Grand Prix in New York is a great boost for the team!” – Quentin Delapierre

    Blueshift Sailing Team finished in second place, with Entreprises du Morbihan (skippered by Matthieu Salomon) securing a solid third after a consistent performance across the event.

    📸 @Qaptur – Josselin Didou

    One of the other highlights of this edition was the return of Rockwool Racing Team, representing Denmark on the SailGP circuit. Using the ETF26 as a training platform between global events, the Danish team reinforces the growing interest among elite sailors in this dynamic and competitive class.

    The GPEN also gave crews a chance to experience the unique setting of the École Navale—where warm hospitality, military precision, and close proximity to future naval officers create an atmosphere unlike any other.

    Next up: the ETF26 SERIES heads south for two key international events—Foiling Week on Lake Garda (June 25–28) and GP Riva del Garda (August 27–30)—before finishing the season in Spain at Mar Menor (October 15–18).

    With the top three teams now tied in the overall standings, the championship is wide open and the level of competition is higher than ever.

    📸 @Qaptur – Josselin Didou

    🎥 A full media kit (photos, videos, logos) is available here:
    Media Kit


    2025 ETF26 SERIES Calendar:
    GP Quiberon – April 9–12
    GP École Navale (Brest) – May 28–31
    Foiling Week (Lake Garda) – June 25–28
    GP Riva del Garda – August 27–30
    GP Mar Menor – October 15–18

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