7 SEPTEMBER 2026
Jessie Kampman Targets Another Podium Finish at the European Championships
Kampman heads into the Europeans in Turkey as one of the leading riders in the Formula Kite
Jessie Kampman heads into the European Championships in Akyaka, Turkey, as one of the leading riders in the Formula Kite world, with another podium finish her target as she brings a long season to a close.
The European Championships run from September 7 to 12, with Kampman entering the final event of her season after another standout year on the international circuit.
Kampman’s route to the top of Formula Kite began in sailing. She stepped into an Optimist at the age of seven before moving into the 420 class. Wanting to pursue an individual discipline, she eventually discovered kiteboarding and found her way into competitive kitefoiling.
Since making the switch to represent the Netherlands in 2025, Kampman has established herself firmly among the sport’s elite. That year, she captured the world title, while this season she added a World Championship silver medal in Portugal.
The European Championships in Akyaka mark the final race of an exceptionally long season, but Kampman arrives with clear objectives despite the fatigue that comes at the end of the campaign.
“It has been a long season. I’m quite tired and looking forward to a period of rest, but we know why we are here,” Kampman says.
Rather than simply looking for a result, Kampman and her team have identified specific areas they want to develop during the championships.
“We have specific things we want to work on this week. I want to gain more experience racing against the other women and build on the great year we have had as a team.”
Formula Kite demands precision at extreme speed. Riders regularly exceed 70 km/h, with starts, positioning, tactical decisions, crossings and gybes all playing a crucial role. At those speeds, there is little room for hesitation or error.
For Kampman, the European Championships provide one final opportunity to test herself against the strongest riders in the world before stepping away from competition for a period of recovery and preparation.
“The goal is to finish the season with another podium finish.”
The championship format will see the riders compete in qualifying races before progressing through the Final Series and, ultimately, the Medal Series. The top ten men and women advance to the final stage, where quarterfinals and semifinals lead into the Grand Final. The first rider to score two match points will be crowned European champion.
For Kampman, Akyaka is therefore not simply the final race on the calendar. It is the final test of a remarkable season — and another opportunity to underline her status as one of Formula Kite’s leading contenders.