Electrifying Debut for SFT Pump Foiling World Tour at Boot Düsseldorf 2025

SFT Pump Foiling Debut

The inaugural event of the SFT Pump Foil World Tour made waves at the Boot Show in Düsseldorf, Germany, from January 17–19, 2025, delivering three action-packed days of cutting-edge foilboarding competition and innovation. With over 500 spectators lining the pool daily, the event demonstrated the immense potential of this burgeoning sport while captivating both seasoned watersports enthusiasts and newcomers.

Day One: Seeding and Testing the Waters

The opening day served as a proving ground for the tour’s format. Riders had the opportunity to test the pool setup in the morning before participating in timed races to determine the seeding for the competitive heats. The energy was palpable as athletes began strategizing and familiarizing themselves with the unique environment, setting the stage for an intense Round 1.

Day Two: Round 1 Sparks Intense Competition

Day two saw the commencement of Round 1, featuring 24 skilled athletes, including two women, battling it out in 12 head-to-head heats. The competitors left it all on the water as they executed high-speed maneuvers and displayed their technical prowess to secure spots in the next round. By the end of the day, 16 men advanced to Round 2, while the two female competitors, Sarah Spalinger and Viola Lippitsch, progressed directly to the finals.

Day Three: Format Change and Thrilling Finals

To heighten the excitement on the final day, a new SFT pumping course was introduced, blending elements of speed and technicality. The course adjustments ensured a fresh challenge for the riders while maintaining some familiarity to avoid unnecessary crashes.

For the men, the course involved two full laps:

 • Start – straight speed line to the last buoy

 • Return with zig-zag (slalom)

 • Out again with zig-zag (slalom)

 • Final stretch with a straight speed line

 • Finish at the last buoy

For women, the course involved one full lap:

 • Start – straight speed line to the last buoy

 • Return with zig-zag (slalom)

 • Finish at the last buoy

This modified format came into effect starting with the quarterfinals, adding an extra layer of strategy and spectacle to the competition.

The final day was a showcase of world-class talent and nail-biting matchups. The quarterfinals featured the top eight athletes, each pushing the limits of what’s possible in pump foiling. The semifinals narrowed the field further, leading to an exhilarating final showdown between Titouan Galea and Benjamin May. 

In a gripping battle of skill and endurance, Benjamin May emerged victorious, clinching the win in a best-of-three format. Meanwhile, young talents Jurij Scribbler and Robert von Roll delivered standout performances, securing third and fourth place, respectively, and earning the admiration of spectators and fellow riders alike.

“The spectators were mega and kept us going with every lap. The participants were so motivated and pushed each other on. It was a great event!”, said Benjamin May.

For the women, the finals brought an equally compelling contest as Sarah Spalinger faced off against Viola Lippitsch. Spalinger’s flawless runs earned her the victory, cementing her as a trailblazer in the sport.

“It's an incredible feeling to be here. The atmosphere is simply electrifying. Three years ago, when I started the sport, I would never have thought that I would be taking part in a World Cup,” says the Swiss right after the race.

A Resounding Success

The event’s success went beyond the competition. The lively atmosphere, with cheering crowds and electrifying performances, highlighted the appeal of the SFT World Tour’s innovative concept. Riders expressed their excitement to be part of this pioneering series, and the audience’s enthusiastic reception underscored the sport’s growing popularity.

Looking Ahead

With its first event setting a high bar for innovation and competition, the SFT World Tour looks ahead to Pensacola, Florida, from February 25 to March 2, 2025. As the tour continues to break new ground and unite the global foiling community, it’s clear that foiling is poised to become a staple of competitive watersports.

Stay tuned for more thrilling action from the SFT World Tour as it rides the wave of innovation and excitement across the globe.