TEAM NEWS: YOUNG BRAZILIAN TALENT JOINS THE TEAM!

Interview with Malick Pagnotti, a rising talent on the wing foil scene.

One thing is certain on the Surf-Freestyle Tour: you’re never too young to start shredding. Two-time reigning world champion Benjamin Castenskiold, a 16-year-old GONG rider, is living proof. So, when a young rider starts turning heads, you’d better pay attention. Malick is certainly one of them, he even caught Benjamin’s eye. Meet Malick, the newest member of the GONG Team!

Hello Malick, can you introduce yourself to our readers?

I am 13 years old and live in São Miguel do Gostoso, Brazil. I grew up near the ocean, and today wing foiling is a huge part of my life. I especially love freestyle and wave riding, but I also surf foiling and surfing. I enjoy training, traveling, discovering new spots, and competing, but above all, I love having fun on the water and continuing to learn new things. My dream is to become a world champion and, at the same time, introduce more kids my age to this sport.

When and how did you get into board sports?

About five years ago. I used to see guys surfing at Tourinhos, a spot near where I live, and watching them made me want to give it a try. That’s how it all started.

What hooked you: the sensations, the environment, or the atmosphere?

The sensations, above all. With wing foiling, it feels almost like flying over the water. It’s an incredible feeling.

What is your home spot? What are the conditions like there?

My home spot is São Miguel do Gostoso. There’s a great vibe, and we have steady wind practically every day for about nine months of the year. At times, waves roll in too, so we can do both freestyle and wave riding.

What does a perfect day on the water look like for you?

For me, a perfect day involves about 30 knots of wind and, ideally, some nice waves. Combining freestyle and waves in the same session would be the ultimate experience!

Who is your role model in this sport?

Bengy. First of all, because he’s a friend of mine and has always tried to teach me new moves. I also really love his freestyle style and the way he approaches the sport.

When did you enter your first competition, and how did it go?

My first competition was in 2024, and I finished first in the beginner category. It was a fantastic experience, and it really fueled my desire to compete more.

Wing foiler: Malick, GONG team rider, riding the Hyperloop, Droid Aramid X, Carbon HM mast and V3 Atmo Ypra Freestyle foil.

What has been your best result so far?

My best result was last year at the Gostoso Wingfoil Cup when I took first place in the Open freestyle category. It’s definitely one of the achievements I’m happiest about. And just last week-end I did repeat the win with my new gear.

The competition was held here in São Miguel do Gostoso, Brazil, where I live, and organized by Kauli Seadi.

The event lasted four days, with very consistent conditions: around 24–30 knots of wind and medium swell.

The freestyle competition was run with a double-elimination format. I went through the first elimination without being knocked out, so during the second elimination I was able to wait for the challenger coming through the bracket and then compete in the final. I finished 1st in the Freestyle Open category, which made me extremely happy, especially as this was his first competition with my GONG equipment.

What is your main goal in competitions?

My dream is to one day take first place in the World Championship. But for me, competitions are also a chance to travel, meet new people, and make friends with others who share my passion. 10. What are you focusing on most right now: competitions or content creation?

Both. In competitions, I want to keep improving and aim for first place. With content, on the other hand, I want to pursue my mission: introducing wingfoiling to more kids and young people and getting them excited to try the sport.

What kind of sessions motivate you the most these days? Are you working on any new maneuvers?

Right now, I’m most motivated by freestyle and surf sessions. The maneuver I’m trying to perfect is the Palau 720.

What made you want to join the GONG team?

I really like their gear, and I’m a huge fan of Benji (freestyle) and Malo (surf). They are incredible athletes, and being on the same team is a huge source of motivation for me.

Which piece of GONG gear are you most excited to use?

The whole setup, actually! The wings, the foils, and especially the new boards. I also really like that GONG has developed boards with smaller dimensions and volumes, perfect for kids and lighter riders. It’s amazing.

What are your next trip and your next competition?

I’ll keep competing in the Brazilian Circuit stops in Brazil, and I’m most looking forward to the Rio de Janeiro event. But my big dream is to compete in the GWA. This year, I’m finally old enough to do it!