Genoa, a city steeped in maritime history, once again opened its arms to the cutting edge of sailing on March 17th, 2026, hosting the ninth annual Foiling Awards. This highly anticipated international event, now a fixture on the global sailing calendar, brought together the luminaries of the foiling world – from the architects of groundbreaking designs to the athletes who push these machines to their absolute limits.

The evening was a testament to the relentless innovation that defines foiling. While the official list of winners is still keenly awaited, the buzz in the room was palpable. Discussions ranged from the latest advancements in AC75 foil design, undoubtedly influenced by the upcoming America's Cup cycle, to the ever-evolving strategies employed by SailGP teams like Tom Slingsby's Australia and Peter Burling's New Zealand. The sheer speed and tactical complexity of these craft continue to captivate, and the awards serve as a crucial recognition of the minds and hands behind their success.

For those of us who’ve witnessed the evolution from displacement hulls to these gravity-defying marvels, the Foiling Awards are more than just a ceremony; they’re a barometer of the sport’s future. The convergence of engineers from Southern Spars and North Sails, alongside the competitive fire of sailors like Ben Ainslie and Jimmy Spithill, underscores the collaborative spirit driving this revolution. Genoa, with its rich sailing heritage and burgeoning marine industry, proved a fitting backdrop for an evening dedicated to celebrating the audacious spirit of foiling.