The first WRF World Rafting Cup of this 2025, in Wildalpen - Austria, has officially come to a close, delivering a weekend full of speed, strategy, and pure river skills. Set against the cold, technical waters of the Salza River, the competition crowned the best teams across RX, Slalom, and Downriver – showing just how complete a team needs to be to claim the Overall title.
In the Open Men category, it was France (FRA-40) who dominated across the board. They took first place in the Slalom, a crucial performance that consolidated their Overall victory. Austria (AUT-37) fought hard, particularly shining in Downriver where they took first place, proving their strength over long distances. Italy (ITA-23) showed consistency across disciplines, especially securing a great result in RX with a podium spot, which helped them climb onto the Overall third step.
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In the Open Women category, Forward Motion from the Netherlands (NLD-11) proved nearly unstoppable. They took the top spot in RX and Slalom, combining explosive starts with clean technical lines to dominate the Quali and the gates. Italy (ITA-10) managed to edge ahead in Downriver, showing strong endurance and teamwork to claim that discipline’s gold – which secured them second Overall. The mixed team from Ivrea Canoa Club, Garfagnana, and Movimento&Natura (ITA-14) grabbed valuable points across all three disciplines to complete the podium.
The Open Mixed category was an all-Italian affair, with Rafting Team Verona (ITA-04) claiming victories in both RX and Downriver, while managing an excellent Slalom that cemented their overall lead. Close behind, CSA / Anatre di Fiume (ITA-01) impressed in Slalom, putting down one of the cleanest runs of the weekend, and Movimento&Natura ASD (ITA-08) completed the full Italian sweep by staying consistently high-ranked through all events.
Wildalpen’s World Cup showed that to win, teams need more than just speed – they need precision, teamwork, and the ability to adapt to cold and demanding river conditions. Now, all eyes turn to the next WRF World Cup chapter: Val di Sole, Italy, where the legendary Noce River awaits. Bigger rapids, bigger crowds, and an even fiercer competition are on the horizon.
Don’t miss it – see you there rafters!
@worldrafting
