In this article I want to give you an overview of the most popular national kitesurfing events, many of which are usually held in Tarifa.
GKA World Championships
The GKA BIG AIR World Championships is the most important kitesurfing event in the world. The best riders of the world will compete in freestyle, strapless and hydrofoil. The rider is scored according to criteria such as height, maneuver or style of jumps performed, among others.
From 2 to 7 September 2025 in Tarifa will be held the GKA Youth Kite World Championships (more info) which is the world championship for the youth category, for young people up to eighteen years, competing in Twintip Freestyle and Surfboard Freestyle.
IX Spain Kiteboarding League (SKL)
In Tarifa could not miss the National Kitesurfing League of Spain. There will be 3 events in two different spots, focusing on grassroots sport and Big Air, as reported in their social networks. The riders will compete to make the highest jump.
- S.K.L Tarifa (next to Tumbao Tarifa):
- Spanish Championship Kiteboarding Freestyle and Strapless, from 12 to 14 September.
- S.K.L Tarifa – Spa:
- SUPERPUNK BIG AIR: International Event Big Air, shorts lines & Strapless.
- Spanish Championship Big Air, Twintip & Surfboard.
WP: From 19 Sept to 19 October.
Formula Kite (FKSS)
Formula Kite is a young kitesurfing modality that is characterized by being very fast. It is about regattas and as we explained in our blog, it is the modality with which kitesurfing debuted in the Olympics. There will be competitions in different categories. The Spanish Formula Kite Championship will take place in Alicante in February, within the Olympic Week of the Valencian Community. Also in May will be the European Championship.
Full Power Tarifa
This event combines kitesurfing, music and gastronomy and last year was held at the spot Balneario de Tarifa. With the slogan “Go huge or go home” it is one of the most adrenaline kitesurfing events, with competition in Big Air Kite and Megaloops. It is very likely to be held in September, since there should be more than thirty knots of wind (taking advantage of the venturi effect). There will be kite jumping competitions in different categories, as well as exhibitions, live music and food stalls. An event with a great atmosphere.
GWA Wing foil Tarifa World Cup 2025
We can not miss the date with the Wing Foil World Cup, which will be from 15 to 18 October in Tarifa, as announced on the official website. Wing Foil is one of the latest kitesurfing modalities that is becoming more popular in recent times. It combines elements of windsurfing, kitesurfing and surfing. A board similar to a surf board is used, but with a foil or hydrofoil at the bottom to rise above the water and an inflatable wing is used as propulsion.
Red Bull King of the Air
Red Bull King of the Air is a very popular Big Air competition worldwide. It brings together international riders to perform high flights and extreme stunts. Last year 2024 had a qualifier in different spots around the world, including Tarifa. And the winners get a place for the finals in Cape Town in South Africa.
Besides these events, there might be other kitesurfing events in Tarifa throughout the year. You can find more information on the website of the Tarifa Town Hall.
I hope you find this information useful and… Have a nice trip to Tarifa!