Monaco’s sailing calendar shows no signs of cooling down as the Yacht Club de Monaco prepares to host the first act of the 2025/2026 Sportsboat Winter Series, beginning Friday 7th November. A total of 21 crews representing seven nationalities are expected on the start line for the opening round of this high-level J/70 competition, now in its 12th year.
Since its inception in 2013, the Monaco Sportsboat Winter Series has earned a reputation as one of the most competitive off-season circuits in the Mediterranean. It offers J/70 teams an unrivalled opportunity to stay race-sharp through the winter months while fine-tuning tactics and crew dynamics ahead of key spring regattas.
A proven training ground with consistent conditions
Thanks to Monaco’s reliable winter breezes and expertly managed race logistics, the series continues to attract top-tier international teams looking to challenge themselves against a highly competitive fleet. The J/70 Monaco Class Association currently has 25 boats on its roster, making it one of the strongest winter hubs for the class anywhere in Europe.
Overseen by the Yacht Club de Monaco’s Flotte des Commissaires, the format focuses on fast-paced, back-to-back short races, with minimal downtime and maximum tactical pressure. Last season saw 20 races successfully completed despite varied weather, underscoring the event’s consistency and growing prestige.
Home champion returns to defend his title
All eyes will be on defending champion Stefano Roberti (Piccinina), who returns to the water with a clear goal: to retain his title. But competition will be fierce, with familiar names like Euro-Voiles, last year’s runner-up, G-Spot skippered by Giangiacomo Serena di Lapigio, Fraser Yacht helmed by Pierrik Devic, and Moonlight II with Graeme Peterson all returning to challenge the leaderboard. A strong foreign contingent adds further weight to the fleet, eager to benchmark their performance against Monaco’s best.
On the horizon: the Primo Cup – Trophée UBS
For many crews, the Monaco Sportsboat Winter Series is a stepping stone toward the season’s marquee event: the 42nd Primo Cup – Trophée UBS, scheduled for 5th to 8th March 2026. Founded by H.S.H. Prince Albert II in 1985, the Primo Cup has become an iconic regatta in the Mediterranean one-design circuit, making the winter series a vital part of early-season preparations.
Racing begins Friday
The action officially begins on Friday 7th November, with a practice race scheduled for Thursday. Skippers will gather for briefing at 10am on race day, with the first warning signal set for 12 noon. Races will continue on Saturday and Sunday from 11am, with no warm-up laps in sight — just immediate, competitive sailing from the start.
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All photos courtesy of the YCM