Maxime Nocher: the winner of the 2016 Formula Kite World Championships | Photo: IKA

Maxime Nocher and Daniela Moroz have taken out the 2016 Formula Kite World Championships, held in Weifang, China.

The one-off event sanctioned by the International Kiteboarding Association (IKA) crowned world champions.

Despite the long lay days, the world's best foil kiteboarders returned to the Yellow Sea for the final races. The light winds on offer forced riders to adjust to the conditions. As a result, lighter kiteboarders with bigger kites prevailed.

In the Men's division, Maxime Nocher confirmed his superiority, and always kept a comfortable lead over Oliver Bridge and Axel Mazella. The rider from Monaco is IKA's first foil kiteboarding world champion.

"It was really intense today. We only had 10 in the fleet, but they're all the best riders and we're altogether on the course. That's my third world title, but my first Formula foil title. So it's really wonderful to win it," said Nocher.

But the biggest surprise came from the women's division. Despite Elena Kalinina's fierce attacks, the young 15-year-old rider from the USA, Daniela Moroz, claimed the world title.

"That's pretty crazy. It haven't really got it yet. I'm pretty happy. It's so cool. I was pretty bummed about yesterday. I had her in a couple of races and lost. Today I relaxed and tried to cover her and sail without any mistakes," explained Moroz.

2016 Formula Kite World Championships | Top 3

Men
1. Maxime Nocher (MON)
2. Olly Bridge (GBR)
3. Axel Mazella (FRA)

Women
1. Daniela Moroz (USA)
2. Elena Kalinina (RUS)
3. Steph Bridge (GBR)

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