The athletes that will compete at the 2021 Red Bull King of the Air (KOTA) have been announced.
The world's most famous big air kiteboarding competition will run at Kite Beach in Cape Town, somewhere between January 30 and February 14.
The all-star list features local favorites, previous event champions, and up-and-coming young guns.
The official roster includes the winner of the Fly to Red Bull King of the Air Qualifier Series satellite contest, the top three finishers from the 2020 edition, and the video entrants.
"The sport and the discipline is getting younger. We didn't expect such a large number of new talented riders sending in video clips," explains Sergio Cantagalli, KOTA's event director.
"It has been a challenge to the panel of judges, but we want to reward the most complete big air kiteboarder on the planet."
"We're looking for the complete package - power, height, technicality, extreme attitude, and innovation."
Jesse Richman, the winner of the 2020 edition, will be battling against some of the most experienced big air specialists in the world.
Kevin Langeree, who won Cold Hawaii Games - the only event in the Fly to Red Bull King of the Air Qualifier Series ran in 2020 - is also chasing the prestigious trophy.
Former champions Aaron Hadlow and Nick Jacobsen will also compete in the windy waters of South Africa.
2021 Red Bull King of the Air | Riders List
Aaron Hadlow (GBR)
Airton Cozzolino (CPV)
Angely Boullot (FRA)
Arthur Guillebert (FRA)
Giel Vlugt (NED)
Janek Grzegorzewski (POL)
Jesse Richman (USA)
Joshua Emanuel (RSA)
Kevin Langeree (NED)
Lasse Walker (NED)
Liam Whaley (ESP)
Marc Jacobs (NZ)
Nick Jacobsen (DEN)
Steven Akkersdijk (NED)
Stig Hoefnagel (NED)
Tom Bridge (GBR)
Ulrich Edgar (FRA)
Val Garat (FRA)