World’s Top Boats and Sailors Gather in Jandía for the 44Cup
The final test of the season will take place in Fuerteventura this November, deciding a year of top‑level sailing worldwide.
In 2025, the 44Cup celebrates its 17th season of racing with the iconic RC44. This thrilling circuit comprises five events, including an official World Championship backed by World Sailing. The program blends one‑design competitions led by the owners at the highest level in some of the world’s premier sailing destinations, complemented by an unrivaled social atmosphere after each racing day.
The RC44, built entirely from carbon fibre, remains a benchmark of innovation. Continuously updated with the latest technology, it performs flawlessly in light 5‑knot breezes as well as demanding 25‑knot conditions, maximizing racing days. Its standout features include a lightweight hull, a trim tab that enhances upwind ability, and a retractable daggerboard, keeping it competitive against larger, more modern yachts. As a one‑design class, it guarantees fair competition through strict measurements while reducing operational costs.
Caribbean Kick‑off: British Virgin Islands (BVI)
The season opened from 12 to 16 February in Nanny Cay, Tortola, at the renowned Nanny Cay Marina & Resort. The fleet raced in the Sir Francis Drake Channel, one of the world’s premier sailing areas, benefitting from steady east‑trade winds and calm waters shielded by the “Little Sisters” islands.
Europe: Porto Cervo, Italy
From 14 to 18 May the circuit moved to northeastern Sardinia, hosted by the prestigious Yacht Club Costa SmeraldaYCCS). Founded by His Highness the Aga Khan, the club is among the world’s most distinguished and offers luxury facilities. Races took place on the crystal‑clear waters of the Costa Smeralda, known for the north‑west Mistral wind that creates exciting conditions. Porto Cervo last hosted the 44Cup in 2017 and returned this year with an unmatched social and sporting level.
Summer in Marstrand, Sweden
From 24 to 28 June the 44Cup arrived in Marstrand, one of the circuit’s most visited venues, with twelve previous events held there. Backed by Torbjörn Törnqvist of Artemis Racing, the races were organized by the Marstrands Segelsällskap. The Swedish sailing capital combines spectacular scenery with varied conditions—from fresh northern breezes to warm, light summer airs. One race day even finished in Marstrand’s inner harbor, creating a unique spectacle for spectators.
New Destination: Scheveningen, Netherlands
For the first time, the 44Cup visited Scheveningen, The Hague, from 27 to 31 August. This event served as the World Championship for the class and was organized by Nico Poons, the 44Cup champion of 2022 and 2023, at the Jachtclub Scheveningen. Known for challenging tides and sandbanks, the North Sea provides a technically demanding setting. Temperatures hover around 18 °C, with prevailing south‑west winds adding a fresh challenge for the teams.
Finale in the Canary Islands: Marina Jandía, Fuerteventura
The 44Cup will close the season from 19 to 23 November in Fuerteventura, visiting the brand‑new Marina Jandía in the island’s south for the first time. The harbor, with 302 berths and capacity for vessels up to 50 m, is slated for inauguration in 2025. Its modern infrastructure offers the perfect stage for the circuit’s grand finale. Fuerteventura, famed for its white‑sand beaches and water sports, will provide reliable north‑east trade winds and an idyllic racing venue for the RC44s.
A Promising Future for the 44Cup
“This is an exciting moment for the 44Cup,” said Bertrand Favre, manager of the RC44 Class Association. “New teams are ready to join our owners’ group, we have launched new boats, and our 2025 program is packed with fresh ideas. Every year the level of competition rises, and we’re eager to see which team will stand out this season.”
The 44Cup’s 2025 itinerary showcases a blend of elite sailing, cutting‑edge technology, and vibrant social events, setting the stage for another unforgettable year on the water.