UAE's Rashed Al Mulla leads Aquabike freestyle world championship

Team Abu Dhabi star Rashed Al Mulla has taken the overall lead in the UIM-ABP Aquabike World Championship Freestyle category after a flawless performance at the Shanghai Grand Prix in China, the opening round of the 2026 season.

Al Mulla secured maximum points across the weekend, collecting 50 championship points to move to the top of the standings ahead of the second and final round of the championship.

The Emirati rider began strongly by topping the freestyle qualifying session before delivering a series of technical manoeuvres and backflips in Moto 1.

His routine earned 227 points from the judges, securing victory and 25 championship points.

He maintained that form on the final day with another impressive display, showcasing skill, control and variety to claim a second consecutive win and a further 25 points.

Al Mulla said taking the championship lead provides added confidence heading into the decisive final round, while stressing the importance of maintaining focus as he pursues another world title.

He also credited the Abu Dhabi Marine Sports Club and its technical and administrative teams for their continued support, saying it has played a key role in helping him achieve success on the international stage.

A six-time Freestyle world champion, Al Mulla won titles in 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022 and 2024.

He finished runner-up in 2025 and now has the opportunity to claim a seventh crown.

The championship battle has taken on greater significance following the cancellation of the Doha and Jeddah rounds, leaving Shanghai and Olbia as the only events on the 2026 calendar.

The final round will take place in Olbia, Sardinia, from October 16 to 18, where this year's world champions will be crowned.