Hyeres, France. Cypriot sailor Pavlos Kontides finished eighth overall at the Grand Slam of Hyeres on Sunday in his first major ILCA7 competition appearance of 2026. He remained inside the top ten in a competitive international field.
Race-day results and overall standing
On the final day, Kontides finished second in the opening race before placing seventh in the following race. The results confirmed his overall eighth-place finish and a top-ten position in the regatta.
Return after illness and injury
The event was significant for Kontides, who missed the opening Grand Slam of the season due to illness. His participation in Hyeres also followed a recent injury, with the regatta serving as a measure of his competitive readiness ahead of upcoming events.
Next target and international podium
Kontides is preparing for the European Championship scheduled for May, with his results across the regatta reflecting consistency against leading sailors. Australia’s Matt Wearn won the gold medal, while Britain’s Michael Beckett and Elliot Hanson took silver and bronze respectively.
Background and ranking
Kontides is a two-time Olympic silver medallist and a former world champion in 2017 and 2018. He is currently ranked third in the global ILCA7 standings.
Will Kontides carry this form into the European Championship in May?