Red Bull King of the Air 2024 Brings the Heat

History was written as six elite female riders launched into their heats, showcasing technical prowess and massive air. Leading the charge for Duotone was Pippa Van Iersel, who won her heat and took the highest impression score of the heat, securing her spot in the finals. “I am super happy with the result, straight into the finals, I couldn’t have asked for a better start!” Pippa said. “Those 13 minutes of competition were super intense. I gave my all and made it to the finals. The next day, the wind is nuking, we’re on for the finals!”

In the Open Division, Andrea Principi showed why he’s the defending champion, putting on a commanding performance. Andrea stomped his first-ever handle pass in competition, cruising straight into Round 3 with a clear message for the field: he’s ready to defend his crown.“I feel good, I’m super stoked with my performance,” Andrea shared. “I did all the tricks I had in my mind. The conditions were really good, I couldn’t have asked for anything better. The day started slow—I slept until 3 PM—but then I got in the water and sent the trap!”

Edgar Ulrich had a challenging first heat but remains optimistic for the rounds ahead. “I felt a little off on my first trick,” Edgar explained. “I missed the bar on my dangle pass and hit the sandbank pretty hard. It winded me, but I told myself I had to continue. I managed to get some good scores but came up one point short of first place. I’m focusing on staying positive and putting together a better performance in Round 2.”

For Nathan Texier, the energy of the event was electric for the rookie, even if his heat didn’t go as planned. “It was amazing, such great energy here. Everyone on the beach was screaming; it was crazy,” Nathan said. “I didn’t land all the tricks I wanted, but I have a chance now to come back in the second round and give it everything. I have nothing to lose!”

As the second day of action approaches, the stage is set for more high-flying action, with the Duotone team riders eager to deliver, all eyes are on Cape Town as the world’s best prepare to battle it out.

Stay tuned for updates, highlights, and behind-the-scenes coverage on our social channels as the Red Bull King of the Air 2024 continues to push the limits of big air kiteboarding.

Photos: Craig Kolesky / RedBull Content Pool.