The Abu Dhabi Team for Powerboat Racing has set a new world record in the Pavia–Venice race, the world’s longest river powerboat competition, marking a significant achievement in the history of marine sports. Veteran Italian driver Guido Cappellini, representing the team, piloted the vessel to the record-breaking finish on Tuesday.
Starting in Pavia, located in northern Italy, the race followed the full course of the Po River, Italy’s longest waterway, before concluding in Venice. The demanding route stretched approximately 415 kilometers, presenting competitors with a series of natural challenges including strong currents, sharp bends, and varying river conditions.
Cappellini completed the course in 1 hour, 41 minutes, and 54 seconds, registering an average speed of 207.26 kilometers per hour. This performance shattered the previous record of 203.34 kilometers per hour, which had stood since 2005 when it was set by Italian racer Dino Zantelli. The significant improvement highlights both technological advancements and the exceptional skill required to navigate such a complex course at high speeds.
The achievement adds to the long list of accolades accumulated by Cappellini, who has been a dominant figure in powerboat racing for decades. Since joining the Abu Dhabi Team, he has led the squad to multiple world titles, further cementing his legacy as one of the sport’s most successful and respected competitors.
The Pavia-Venice race is recognized as one of Europe’s oldest and most prestigious powerboat events. Its challenging layout demands not only speed but also precise navigation and expert control. The combination of these elements has made victories in this race a notable accomplishment within the international powerboat racing community. This latest triumph serves as another testament to the United Arab Emirates’ growing prominence in global sports.
Team Abu Dhabi’s continued success on the international stage reflects the nation’s broader commitment to excellence and its investment in developing competitive athletes and teams across various disciplines. The world record performance in Italy further strengthens the UAE’s position as a leading force in marine sports, highlighting the country’s ability to compete and succeed at the highest levels of competition worldwide. – By MENA Newswire News Desk.
