Swan Versmissen Triumphs as the First Champion of the FAI E-Drone Racing World Cup
At just 18 years old, French pilot Swan Versmissen has made history by claiming the title of the first champion in the FAI E-Drone Racing World Cup.
His remarkable skill shone through during an intense 2024 season, which unfolded over five thrilling events.
This victory marks Versmissen’s second significant achievement in the world of drone racing, following his success in the 2023 FAI E-Drone Racing Cup at the FAI World Drone Racing Championships in Korea.
With his exceptional speed and lightning-fast reflexes, he left his rivals in the dust, finishing ahead of Serbia’s 15-year-old Kirill Loban and India’s 21-year-old Krutharth Mohan Chickmagalur, who took second and third places, respectively.
Final Standings
- Swan Versmissen, France
- Kirill Loban, Serbia
- Krutharth Mohan Chickmagalur, India
Event Highlights
This inaugural season drew 140 pilots from 40 nations, all vying for glory using identical drone models.
The only variations were in the adjustable settings for control sensitivity.
Each event sported unique drone aesthetics, contributing to a vibrant showcase for sponsors.
Event 1: Kickoff Competition
The season launched with qualifications on May 20, culminating in the main event on June 15-16 at the Italy 2024 World Cup Track.
With a prize pool of $1,800, commentator Alexandre ‘FunKa’ Verrier captured the excitement that unfolded among the 75 pilots.
- Swan Versmissen – France (YAYOU)
- Krutharth Mohan Chickmagalur – India (IonFPV)
- Kirill Loban – Serbia (Valprim)
Event 2: Alpine Challenge
Amidst a stunning fictional landscape crafted by EreaDrone, the Alpine Challenge presented a 2,700-meter course, attracting 57 competitors eager for the thrill.
- Krutharth Mohan Chickmagalur – India (IonFPV)
- Kirill Loban – Serbia (Valprim)
- Swan Versmissen – France (YAYOU)
Event 3: Harbour Race
In September, contestants raced along an A-to-B track designed around a conceptual harbor area, following a qualification round in August.
- Swan Versmissen – France (YAYOU)
- Guillaume Bailleau – France (Fenoman)
- Krutharth Mohan Chickmagalur – India (IonFPV)
Event 4: WDRC
The fourth event took place on the same course as the 2024 FAI World Drone Racing Championship, drawing 60 pilots and offering a prize pool of $1,500.
- Swan Versmissen – France (YAYOU)
- Yiran Sheng – China (DuoNaFPV), marking a notable female competitor
- Batu Erilkun – Turkey (BatuFPV)
Event 5: Thrilling Finale in Saudi Arabia
The season concluded with an exhilarating final in Saudi Arabia, featuring a challenging 800-meter loop inspired by the majestic Al-Ula Elephant Rock.
Sponsored by the Saudi Federation for Cybersecurity, this event delivered high-stakes excitement.
- Yiran Sheng – China (DuoNaFPV)
- Elmars Misevics – Latvia (Emis_FPV)
- Max Heiligman – USA (gman)
The 2024 season not only showcased the incredible talent of these skilled pilots but also ignited a growing passion for e-drone racing as a competitive sport around the globe.
Versmissen’s achievement sets a thrilling precedent for future competitions.
Source: Fai.org