Défi Wing returned to Gruissan from 11 to 13 May 2026, bringing together one of the biggest foil racing fleets in the world. Each year, the event keeps growing, with more riders, more brands, and more energy on and off the water.

For 2026, parawinging officially joined the event with its own dedicated category. The ENSIS team made their way to the south of France to join the action, line up with the fleet, and be part of another memorable Défi experience.

Full speed racing in Gruissan

Before the event, the forecast did not look too promising. But Gruissan had other plans.

Across the three days, the riders scored powered racing conditions and completed five races in total. The famous Défi format once again delivered what makes this event so special: big fleets, long distance racing, high speed reaches, and plenty of action from start to finish.

For anyone unfamiliar with Défi, the race begins with a rabbit start. A boat crosses the start area at speed, and the riders set off behind it. With hundreds of riders on the water at the same time, it is an unforgettable sight.

The course is simple, but far from easy. Riders race in a straight line for around 10 km, round a mark, and race back again. On the final day, the challenge stepped up, with longer racing and 40 km courses pushing riders, equipment, and focus all the way to the finish.

The ENSIS team joins the fleet

The ENSIS team came ready to race and put the pedal to the metal.

Balz Müller and Michi Näf competed in the parawing division, finishing just one place apart and showing how fast this new discipline is developing. In the wing division, Thomas, Ryder, Devin, and Dino raced on double skin prototypes, testing new ideas in real race conditions against a massive and motivated fleet.

Défi is always more than just the result sheet. It is a place to test gear, push limits, meet riders from around the world, and share the stoke with the wider foil community. The ENSIS riders brought that spirit to the water and represented the brand with speed, style, and full commitment.

See you at the next Défi

If you have never experienced Défi, it deserves a place on your bucket list. It is a special mix of racing, community, music, food, brand stands, and passionate riders from all over the world.

A big thank you to the ENSIS team riders for showing up, racing hard, and bringing the ENSIS spirit to Gruissan.

See you at the next Défi.

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Photos courtesy of IWSA Media and Robert Hajduk

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