Francesca Wins Coveted Red Bull King of the Air Crown!

Representing the United Kingdom, the 22-year-old landed a crazy kite loop board-off, impressive boogie contra loops, and kite loop late back rolls to take the coveted title.

Completely elated, the Champion kiter couldn't stay still after being awarded her trophy. "I'm so stoked, I got the crown. I said it was coming home, and it's coming home. Thank you so much."


Six of the planet's best female Big Air riders had battled to get to the Red Bull King Of The Air Women's Division Final. North Team Rider Nathalie Lambrecht was knocked out on Day One, while teammate Francesca led the charge to the podium.

With winds peaking at 40 knots and 2-3m swells backlit by a fiery Kite Beach sunset, the three finalists, Francesca, Pippa van Iersel (NED) and Zara Hoogenraad (NED) were called to the water immediately after the Open Semi-Final.


Fran was more than ready, spreading her usual happy vibes on the beach. It was a mindset that set Fran apart from the other competitors; she wasn't at all nervous, just excited to get out and kite. The competition pressure couldn't make a dent.


The 13-minute final started up and down between the three riders - with many hard crashes as they all pushed like never before. Current Big Air World Champion Pippa opened with a Kite Loop Back Roll. This was answered by a boogie loop from Zara, then a full-power kite loop late backroll. Francesca attempted her first kite loop board-off but didn't make the landing. However with still 8 minutes to go, there was no need to panic.


Laying down a megaloop board-off "yellow-tail”, as one commentator named the backfoot pressure Francesca applied as she stomped her landing, for 7.10 points, Francesca forced the hand of the other riders. But a series of failed landings left the megaloop points challenge unanswered by Zara or Pippa. Ultimately, the judges awarded Francesca an 8.54 impression score, and she secured her podium place by more than 2.4 points overall, becoming the first female title-holder in the Red Bull King Of The Air.

Women's Division results
Francesca Maini (United Kingdom)
Zara Hoogenraad (Netherlands)
Pippa Van Iersel (Netherlands)