When Storm Amy triggered a yellow weather warning in the Netherlands, most people stayed indoors. But for 22 of the world’s best kitesurfers, it was the perfect signal to hit the water for the sixth edition of Red Bull Megaloop in Noordwijk, the hometown of Dutch kitesurf icon Ruben Lenten.
After a two-year wait for the extreme conditions needed to run the event, organizers gave the green light just 48 hours in advance. On Monday, 15 September, riders braved winds exceeding 100 km/h, waves up to 3 meters high, and a fierce North Sea current — all to showcase one of the most daring tricks in the sport: the Megaloop.
The move requires riders to launch at least 15 meters into the air, looping their kite in a full 360-degree spin before landing. Judges scored competitors on extremity and style, as athletes battled through elimination heats in front of a roaring crowd and global livestream on Red Bull TV.
Casati and Hoogenraad Claim Historic Wins
In the final, four riders soared to jaw-dropping heights of over 20 meters. Italy’s Lorenzo Casati clinched the men’s title with a Doobieloop Boardspin, fulfilling a lifelong dream.
“It is an incredible feeling for me. I always dreamed of winning this competition—the most extreme competition, the biggest Megaloop,”.
Casati said
The day also marked a historic milestone for women’s kitesurfing. Competing in the event’s first-ever women’s division, Dutch rider Zara Hoogenraad claimed victory with her Boogieloop.
“I can’t believe it. I am so happy—I’m crying because I’m happy. It’s the first women’s division, and I thought, it would be so cool to win in Holland, because I am originally from Holland,”.
she said
A Storm to Remember
With the storm raging and kites looping high above the North Sea, the 2025 Red Bull Megaloop delivered one of the most spectacular editions yet. Between Casati’s dream win and Hoogenraad’s historic breakthrough, the event once again proved why it’s regarded as the ultimate test of courage, skill, and style in kitesurfing.
Watch the replay HERE.
