Ibiza’s powerboating scene now has a name of its own, and a racing number that rivals are already starting to fear: 18. Brothers Alex Palau (Alejandro Prats Palau) and Nadia Prats Palau delivered standout performances this weekend at Arenal Beach in Burriana during the second round of the Spanish Championship, proving that talent and ambition run deep in the family.
DID YOU LIKE THIS CONTENT? WELL... YOU HAVE ALL OF OUR FULL PROGRAMS HERE!Alex Palau once again showed why he is considered Spain’s great hope for the upcoming European Championship. In the GP4 category, the Ibiza-born rider left no room for doubt: he secured pole position and dominated both races with authority. Not even the severe weather conditions, which forced the cancellation of the third race, could slow him down. In fact, Palau thrived in the rough conditions. “I really enjoyed the waves out there; this is exactly what I trained for all winter,” the rider said after the race.
The bittersweet moment came in GP2, where mechanical issues hampered his performance. Despite setting the second-fastest qualifying time, his jet ski stalled in the opening race. Thanks to the tremendous efforts of his mechanics, he was able to return for the second race, mounting an impressive comeback to secure a heroic third-place finish that felt like a personal victory.
But one of the weekend’s biggest stories was also written by a woman. Nadia Prats Palau, who after years of supporting her brother decided to step into competition last season, confirmed her meteoric rise. Sharing the same GP4 jet ski as Alex and guided by his personal advice, Nadia achieved a spectacular second place overall.
The image of the two siblings competing with the same number, sharing strategies, and celebrating podium finishes together has become one of the most admired sights in the national paddock. It is the perfect combination of sacrifice, passion, and Ibiza pride.
With no time for celebrations, Alex Palau is already focused on the European Championship, which will begin in early July in Portugal. The rider continues an intensive physical and mental training program to arrive at the continental event in peak condition.
Judging by what happened in Burriana, the future of Spanish powerboating is already accelerating at full speed… and it carries the number 18 proudly displayed on the helmet.