Max A Cut Above The Rest

He shows 'surgical precision' in slicing tough conditions to retain European title

- David Lee

Described as a surgeon by his peers, Singapore kitefoiler Maximilian Maeder was able to put aside his emotions and operate with clinical precision to retain his Formula Kite European Championships title on May 19, following an eventful week of racing.

The Paris 2024 Olympic bronze medallist had finished second behind Riccardo Pianosi at the French Olympic Week event in April, but insisted he did not set out to avenge that loss as he beat the 20-year-old Italian in Urla, Turkey.

Maeder told The Straits Times: "This win is less about defending the title or gaining revenge, because as satisfying as it is, it can cloud your judgment sometimes during racing. So, it was a great learning experience that I was able to detach myself from that.

"This surgical precision sometimes eludes me, and I'm very happy and flattered that this compliment is going around and I was able to bring it out today."