Overview
Airton Cozzolino is a professional kiteboarder born in 1994 in Sal, Cape Verde, holding dual Cape Verdean and Italian citizenship. He is widely recognized as a founding pioneer of the strapless freestyle kiteboarding discipline and one of the most successful riders in the sport’s history.
Riding Style and Nicknames
His riding style is characterized by aggressive, powerful turns and massive spray, frequently charging into waves at what commentators describe as “Mach 10.” With unparalleled kite control, event commentator Jo Ciastula has famously remarked, “He is mind-controlling the kite. He is truly The Alien!” Furthermore, his massive jumps and incredible hangtime have earned him the moniker “Airline Cozzolino.”
Recognizing his relentless drive to push limits without holding back, Ciastula noted, “Ayrton is go big or go home. I wouldn’t be surprised if I see it tattooed on him one day.” His tactical pride is equally immense; exploiting the GKA judging format, he would rather intentionally crash an imperfect trick and try again than land it poorly and accept a low score.
Innovations in the Sport
Cozzolino was one of the first to introduce highly technical maneuvers into competition using a standard surfboard without foot straps, including strapless handle passes and flat 360s. When asked about his process of constantly generating new tricks, he explained:
“And maybe by mistake you do a trick and that’s a new trick, you know. And then you go, you try it again and that becomes a new trick, you know. For me it’s always like this.”
— Airton Cozzolino
Rivalries and Legacy
In the competitive arena, he shares a profound rivalry and friendship with Matchu Lopes. Growing up together and honing their skills on the waves of Ponta Preta in Cape Verde, they frequently clash in the finals of the GKA World Tour, famously delivering what the media dubbed the “battle of the century” at the 2023 event in Brazil.
He also competes fiercely against Mitu Monteiro, his childhood idol and the “Godfather” of strapless riding, as well as engaging in intense heats against Australian powerhouse James Carew, characterized by immense sportsmanship. After a long tenure with major brands like Duotone and Red Bull, recent events have highlighted his transition to the rapidly growing brand, Gong.
As an undisputed champion, Cozzolino continues to inspire the next generation with a passionate message about perseverance:
“It always depends if you really want it, you can get it. You have to have patience, things doesn’t come from one day to the other, but you have to keep following your dreams.”
— Airton Cozzolino
🏆 Show Major Results & Titles (Spoiler Alert)
World Titles
- 2011: KSP (Kite Surf Pro) Wave Riding World Champion (at age 17)
- GKA Kite-Surf World Champion: Multiple-time overall champion, securing titles in 2017, 2018, 2019, and 2023.
- 2022: Inaugural Qatar Airways GKA Big Air World Champion (Strapless Division)