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Stella Bilger narrowly misses out on a medal, finishing fourth in the women’s iQFOiL at the 2026 French Olympic Week. Here’s why her performance is a significant moment for New Zealand's windfoiling scene.
Bilger starts strong, advancing to the medal series in eighth position. She wins her quarter-final, setting the stage for a rematch with compatriot Aimee Bright in the semi-finals. Bright, qualifying fourth overall, exits in fifth, while Bilger secures her spot in the final, finishing second in their showdown.
In the final, Bilger is in contention, crossing the line third, just ahead of silver medallist Tamar Steinberg. However, Steinberg's earlier performance gives her the edge, leaving Bilger in fourth place overall. Italy’s Marta Maggetti takes gold, and China’s Zheng Yan earns bronze.
The Kiwis shine overall, with Bright’s fifth-place finish and Veerle ten Have narrowly missing the medal series in 11th. In the men’s iQFOiL, Josh Armit qualifies seventh but is eliminated in the quarter-finals, finishing eighth. Australia’s Grae Morris claims gold in a thrilling final.
In the 49er class, Mattias Coutts and Oscar Gunn reach the medal series, aiming for top placements in the deciding races.
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