The road to Gdynia: A journey of resilience and dedication

Having qualified in seventh place, Kyrylo – competing as NaVi 767 – was one of 12 finalists at the live eSailing World Championship final in Gdynia, Poland, held on Sunday 20 July.

Kyrylo was the first to be eliminated in Sunday’s final, but the true victory was being there to compete in the first place.

In a powerful display of determination, he drove for more than 36 hours, a journey of over 1700km, from his home in the Zaporizhzhia region of Eastern Ukraine, perilously close to areas of conflict, to ensure he had the opportunity to represent his country on the world stage.  

“eSailing is a very good opportunity to improve your tactician skills. I have been a sailor for more than 18 years. I was a tactician in the Ukrainian Star Sailors League team; it is my favourite role. eSailing has helped to make me better,” he said.

“It is very important to take part in events like these for Ukrainian sportsmen. I am proud to represent my country in this event. It is important for us to show our flag because not everyone has the opportunity to do this. Sailing areas are now closed. We are trying to do our best, to take part in competitions, but it is difficult because we do not have much space. I am very grateful to my sailing federation because without this hard work I couldn’t be here.”

Kyrylo was hoping to compete in the Olympics as a sailor but had to give up on that dream due to the inability to access the events. Instead, he now hopes to participate at the Olympic Esports Games in 2027 and represent his country in Olympic Competition in eSailing.

Watch his interview here:

Rewatch the 2025 eSailing World Championship final here: