Czechia’s Jakub Krejčí Clinches Kayak Cross Gold at Canoe Slalom World Cup in France

Pau, The Gulf Observer: European champion Jakub Krejčí secured a thrilling victory in the individual kayak cross race at the Canoe Slalom World Cup, edging out Britain’s Sam Leaver by just 0.10 seconds. Krejčí’s compatriot Matyáš Novák also reached the podium, taking third place, just 0.39 seconds off the pace.

This year marks the first season where the individual kayak cross discipline is recognized as a separate World Cup event and serves as a qualifier for the Olympic knockout competition, raising the stakes for top contenders.

On the women’s side, Tereza Kneblová was the best-placed Czech athlete, finishing ninth in a highly competitive field.

The strong performance from Czech paddlers reinforces the nation’s growing dominance in kayak cross, with Krejčí adding yet another gold to his name and building momentum toward the Olympic stage.