Singapore, May 16: Singaporean kitefoiler Maximilian Maeder secured his third world title on Saturday by winning the Formula Kite World Championships held in Viana do Castelo, Portugal.

The world’s top-ranked athlete finished ahead of Switzerland’s Gian Stragiotti in a dominant performance that reaffirmed his position at the top of the sport.

Maeder previously won the world championship titles in 2023 and 2024. In the last edition, he had claimed silver after finishing behind Italy’s Riccardo Pianosi.

Speaking after his victory, Maeder credited his support system and coaching team for his continued success.

“I have such a wonderful team behind me. I always consider myself very fortunate, and I try to make the most of every opportunity,” he said.

He also acknowledged rising competition in the sport, adding that he expects strong challenges in future events.

Maeder, who is just 19 years old and an Olympic bronze medalist, has been in outstanding form this season. He earlier won the Trofeo Princesa Sofia and the Formula Kite title at the French Olympic Week.

At the World Championships, he dominated the opening series and qualified directly for the final, where he carried a race win advantage and secured victory in the first race of the final series.