COVID-19: Even snowkiters get cancelled

After consultation with event organizers regarding the health and safety of everyone in the sport – riders, officials, spectators – the International Kiteboarding Association (IKA) has confirmed the cancellation of the 2021 Snowkite World Cup season.

The IKA said in a statement, “Following ongoing concerns about the COVID-19 virus and the associated restrictions on international travel, we feel that this is the best way to proceed during such an unprecedented global situation. We are very disappointed that we are unable to hold the tour in 2021, especially as all venues have seen the best snow conditions since years. But we know it is the right decision based on the information we have today.”

This decision came prior to the fourth and final event of the 2021 Snowkite World Cup in Cortina d’Ampezzo (ITA) which would have seen World Champions crowned in Freestyle and Big Air. Previously, the events in Kharkiv (UKR), Lago di Resia (ITA), and Roccaraso (ITA) had been postponed due to ongoing travel interruptions, health concerns, and governmental restrictions on the staging of events.

All events will now take place in 2022:

• Kharkiv (UKR) – Racing & Long Distance: January 19-23, 2022
• Resia (ITA) – Racing & Long Distance (Freestyle side event): February 4-6, 2022
• Roccaraso (ITA) – Racing & Long Distance (GPS Formula side event): February 24-27, 2022
• Cortina d’Ampezzo (ITA) – Freestyle & Big Air: March 17-20 or 24-27, 2022

The World Champion titles in the racing and long distance disciplines will be awarded to the winners of the 2022 World Cup tour. The World Titles in Freestyle (Kicker, Slider, Airtrick) and Big Air will be awarded in Cortina.

Full schedule and additional information: www.snowkiteworldcup.com.