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Winners of the most recent VKWC event (big air) in Tarifa. Photo VKWC

Virgin Kitesurf World Championships (VKWC) Media confirmed today that it received the International Kiteboarding Association (IKA) letter last week terminating it’s agreement between IKA and the Professional Kite Riders Association (PKRA).

 VKWC went on to say that negotiations for a potential new contract with VKWC were ongoing for many months. “VKWC had every intention of replacing the PKRA in a new and improved partnership with IKA. Unfortunately the parties were unable to reach an agreement and the discussions highlighted conflicting interests in the development of the sport, support of the youth, safety, event execution and other topics.”The VKWC is now in direct negotiations with the International Sailing Federation (ISAF). “Throughout the process, ISAF has been incredibly supportive of the VKWC and our attempts to reach an agreement with IKA. We will now deal direct with ISAF in good faith in the best interests of the sport, its riders, our commercial partners and our supporters. We are looking forward to working with ISAF to develop a successful partnership which will not only enable the VKWC to grow but also will deliver fantastic developments and growth to the sport itself. We are thankful for the confidence of our partners and the support of the industry and riders.”

The VKWC said it will continue to liaise and keep their principal partner, the Virgin Group, fully informed of developments and appreciates their valued support. “The Global Kitesports Association, representing the majority of the industry supporting the professional riders on the tour 2015, has expressed its full support to VKWC in an earlier press release. We are in close contact with all parties and met with the riders yesterday evening to assure them of our continued support and investment in them, the events and the sport.”

Wishing the IKA the best for its future, the VKWC says it in their desire to make kitesurfing grow in all areas and that they will continue to support this aspiration. “New public events at great kitesurf locations producing thrilling media content are part of the development plans to change the way kiteboarding is recognized globally. Freestyle kiteboarding is one of the most spectacular sports with fantastic athletes that deserve greater exposure and recognition of their talents on a worldwide platform.”

VKWC stated that it will continue to promote and host the 2015 season as scheduled and that the competition format and all established rules and regulations will remain in place under guidance from ISAF.

The next competition is scheduled to take place in Fuerteventura,Playas de Jandia, Spain, from August 3-8, 2015. See VKWC for details. https://www.vkwc.com/