The world's top KiteFoil athletes are in Doha for the GoldCup Final ©IKA

Axel Mazella will hope to secure the men’s International Kiteboarding Association (IKA) KiteFoil GoldCup title when the closing stage of the event begins in Doha tomorrow.

The 18-year-old Frenchman triumphed at the opening round, which took place in Gizzeria, Italy.

He had built a commanding lead in the event, but saw his training partner Maxime Nocher of Monaco close him down towards the end of the competition.

Mazella would end only one point ahead of Nocher, with the duo expected to battle against each other in Qatar’s capital city.

As well as Nocher, the three-time world champion and reigning KiteFoil GoldCup champion, Britain’s Olly Bridge is also viewed as a contender.

The kitefoil class will take place off The Pearl Island’s Qanat Quartier, with high speeds expected due to the flat waters.

Athletes made their preparations for competition today in Doha ©IKA
Athletes made their preparations for competition today in Doha ©IKA

Competition will feature 37 riders from 18 nations.

Russia’s Elena Kalinina is currently leading the women’s standings and will expect to seal the title this week.

The former world champion is the clear favourite heading into the competition, which will take place until November 19.