Health

Aquabike Champions Crowned at Qatar’s Grand Prix Showdown

Published

11 hours ago

2 November, 2025

In a thrilling conclusion to the UIM-ABP World Aquabike Championship, held at the Old Doha Port Grand Prix in Qatar on October 15, 2023, four athletes emerged as champions in their respective categories. Estelle Poret, Oliver Koch Hansen, François Medori, and Roberto Mariani each secured their titles during the final motos, showcasing exceptional skill and determination.

Poret and Koch Hansen Claim First Titles

Estelle Poret achieved her first-ever world title in the Ski Ladies GP1 category. Entering the final moto with a 15-point lead over her closest rival, Poret faced pressure from Benedicte Drange, who had won Moto 2 but suffered a fuel pump failure in Moto 1. Despite Drange’s victory in the final race, Poret’s podium finish was sufficient to secure her championship. She finished the Grand Prix with Jasmiin Ypraus and Drange rounding out the top three in the World Championship standings.

Oliver Koch Hansen, also celebrating his maiden title, started the final Ski GP1 heat with an 18-point lead over Jérémy Poret. The competition intensified as Toshi O’Hara confirmed his bronze medal position in Moto 2. Hansen’s solid performance ultimately secured his championship victory.

Medori and Mariani Dominate Runabout and Freestyle Events

François Medori clinched his third world title with a remarkable win in Moto 3. Initially starting the final race behind Jérémy Perez, who had taken pole position, Medori faced adversity when Perez encountered technical issues during the parade lap and could not start the race. Medori capitalized on this misfortune, finishing the race with a stunning victory by 4.082 seconds, solidifying his status as world champion.

Roberto Mariani triumphed in the Freestyle category, despite a strong challenge from Rashid Al-Mulla of Team Abu Dhabi. Mariani entered the final event with a narrow lead and confirmed his title with impressive performances that earned him a total of 223 points. Al-Mulla, however, won the Grand Prix with a standout double back flip, ending the competition on a high note.

Asian Continental Championship Results

In a noteworthy appearance, Emirati racer Amer Hawair took the top spot in the final Runabout GP2 Asian Continental Championship event. Starting the last moto with a 10-point advantage over fellow countryman Khalid Al-Maazmi, Hawair maintained his position throughout the race. Although Al-Maazmi initially crossed the finish line first, he received a 40-second penalty for a starting infringement, promoting Hawair to third place and securing him the championship title.

Overall, the event at the Old Doha Port Grand Prix highlighted the exceptional talent and competitive spirit of aquabike racers from around the world. The championship’s conclusion marks a significant moment in the sport, setting the stage for future competitions and rivalries.

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