GKA Kite World Tour Fuerteventura: Format, Spots, Pros to Watch
The GKA Kite World Tour returns to Sotavento in 2026 for its 5th edition - the only world-class kitesurf event in Europe. This guide breaks down the format, the spots, the favourites and how to follow the action.
1. The GKA at a Glance
The GKA (Global Kiteboarding Association) Kite World Tour is the highest level professional circuit for freestyle, big air and surfkite. The Fuerteventura stop was added permanently in 2022 and quickly became a favourite of the riders for its consistent wind and flat lagoon at low tide.
2. Format and Disciplines
Three disciplines run at the Sotavento stop: Freestyle (technical tricks: handle passes, kite loops, unhooked rotations), Big Air (height + technicality, judged on the highest jumps), Surf-Kite (waves outside the lagoon for strapless tricks). Total prize money: 60.000 euros across all categories.
3. Getting There
- From FUE: 1 hour drive south on FV-2. Free parking at Hotel Melia Gorriones.
- From Corralejo: 1h30 drive south.
- Daily action: 11:00-18:00 wind permitting.
4. Athletes to Watch in 2026
Freestyle: defending world champion Mikaili Sol returns to defend her crown. Men: Adeuri Corniel from Dominican Republic. Big Air: Andrea Principi (Italy) goes for his second Sotavento win. Strapless: Airton Cozzolino (Cape Verde) is the strapless surfkite legend always to watch.
5. How to Watch Live
On the beach: free entry, viewing along the entire Sotavento dune, best spot in front of the Melia Gorriones tower. Online: live stream on gka-tour.com and the official GKA YouTube channel. Daily highlights uploaded each evening. Free GKA app with results and athlete tracking.
6. Recommended Nearby Spots
- Costa Calma - base town with restaurants and bars, 10 min from Sotavento.
- Risco del Paso - alternative kite spot 5 km north.
- Jandia peninsula - hiking on no-wind days.
- Cofete - day-trip 1 hour drive south-west.
7. Did you know…
The GKA at Sotavento is the only world tour event where freestyle and big air categories run on the same day in the same conditions. The reliable side-onshore wind and flat lagoon make Sotavento the perfect natural arena - judges call it the most challenging spot to win on the circuit.
8. Quick Practical Tips
- 🗓️ Book stay early: Sotavento accommodation fills 8-10 weeks ahead.
- 🧳 Pack: hat, SPF 50+, water - the beach has limited shade.
- 🌀 Best viewing: from the dune above the centre tower.
- 📋 Free entry: all GKA action is free to watch.
- 🌍 Athlete autographs: riders sign by the centre tent after their heats.
9. FAQ — Frequently Asked Questions
When is the GKA Sotavento 2026?
The 2026 Sotavento stop is scheduled for end July/beginning August (final dates confirmed on gka-tour.com). Daily action 11:00-18:00 wind permitting. Free entry.
Can I meet the GKA athletes?
Yes - athletes regularly sign autographs, take photos and chat with fans by the centre tent after their heats. The Sotavento stop is famously friendly.
Can I kite while the event is on?
Yes - kite zones for amateurs are clearly marked north and south of the competition zone. Just respect the boundary and yield to athletes during heats.
Book your GKA week stay
Sotavento accommodation sells out fast for the GKA. Compare options on Stay22 and book direct.
Choose your kite school in Fuerteventura
👉 Book a kite course with one of the certified kite schools listed in our directory.
🔗 Explore all the active kite schools in Fuerteventura: https://kiteschoolfuerteventura.com/kite-schools-fuerteventura