On this episode of the Foil Life Podcast, Luc Moore sits down with newly crowned 2026 GWA Wingfoil World Cup Freefly-Slalom World Champion Kylie Belloeuvre to recap her long-awaited title win, the mental work behind it, and what it took to finally beat longtime rival Nia Suardiaz. After years of podium finishes (second, second, then third), Kylie talks about the high-stakes final day in Fuerteventura, the value of being the chaser rather than the hunted, and how two sport psychologists helped her manage the emotions that used to derail her in big moments.
They cover her dad flying in last-minute to caddy at Gran Canaria, the French national team vibe that now feels more like FOMO than pressure, her NeilPryde Firefly Pro and JP prototype setup, the mid-season switch from Levitaz to Chubonga foils, and how Waterspeed data confirmed she was faster and more consistent. Kylie also shares her thoughts on GWA versus Formula Wing for the Olympics, her engineering studies (now moving into fluid dynamics), and why she’s just trying to keep having fun while surviving at the top of the sport.
Episode Highlights:
- Path from consistent vice-champion to 2026 Freefly-Slalom World Champion after a must-win final against Nia
- Mental training with two coaches and how she finally stayed composed when it mattered most
- Family support, French team training camps, and celebrating the title with a low-key homemade dinner
- Gear choices: Firefly Pro over Fly Pro, JP Rwinger prototype, Chubonga foil switch for stability in waves and weed
- Using Waterspeed to track acceleration, 100–300 m segments, and gear changes — hitting 31.6 knots
- Olympics outlook: why she prefers GWA’s spectacle over traditional racing
- School-life balance as a mechanical engineering student heading toward fluid dynamics and possible foil design
- Next steps: Brittany training camp, sponsor visits, and staying ready without burning out
A genuine, high-energy conversation with one of the sport’s most thoughtful and determined riders — packed with race-day stories, gear insights, and the real work that happens between the events.
Stay tuned for more great episodes, including the return of additional guests and continued adventures.
Visit: https://www.instagram.com/kylie.blv/
