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Three new world champions emerge from the 2026 49er, 49erFX, and Nacra 17 World Championships in Quiberon. Here’s why these victories are significant for the teams and their nations.
In the 49erFX, Norway’s Pia Dahl Andersen and Nora Edland clinch gold, winning the final race to edge out Spain’s Paula Barceló and Maria Cantero by a single point. This victory marks Norway’s first-ever 49erFX world title, coinciding with the country’s national day. Spain takes silver, while Poland’s Aleksandra Melzacka and Sandra Jankowiak surge from eighth to secure bronze.
New Zealand's Sam Menzies and George Lee Rush retain their grip on the 49er gold in a nail-biting finish. Despite struggling in the second race, they execute a remarkable comeback, finishing just ahead of the competition. Austria's Keanu Prettner and Jakob Flachberger earn silver, with the Netherlands' Bart Lambriex and Swen de Vos taking bronze.
In the Nacra 17, Italy's Gianluigi Ugolini and Maria Giubilei hold off challenges after a false start, ultimately securing their gold medal. They started the day with an eight-point lead, showcasing their resilience against local rivals Tim Mourniac and Aloise Retornaz.
These results highlight the intense competition and the rising power of these nations in sailing.
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