GENOA, ITALY, 20 June 2026 – The 73rd Loro Piana Giraglia closed in Genoa, highlighting the essence of one of the Mediterranean’s prestigious races. This edition delivered a blend of heritage, style, and intense competition, cementing its reputation in offshore racing history.
Since its inception in 1953, the Loro Piana Giraglia serves as a cultural bridge between France and Italy, connecting Saint-Tropez to Genoa. Organised by Yacht Club Italiano and Société Nautique de Saint-Tropez, it exemplifies the spirit of international sailing.
Yacht Club Italiano President Carlo Cameli, during the final prize giving, reflected on the event’s legacy and its role in uniting sailors. “Every year, we celebrate a tradition that has united sailors, clubs, and nations for over seven decades. The Giraglia is a tapestry of history, friendship, and passion for the sea, fostering a collective narrative that continues to evolve.”
The regatta commenced in Saint-Tropez, featuring four days of inshore racing. The Gulf of Saint-Tropez provided a stunning backdrop, with light winds testing the sailors’ skills. The week culminated with the fleet’s finish before the Loro Piana Lounge, setting the stage for the offshore race to Genoa.
In the inshore series, Karel Komarek’s Wallycento V triumphed in IRC 0 Maxi A, while Carlo Puri Negri’s Atalanta II dominated IRC 0 Maxi B, winning all five races. Giovanni Lombardi Stronati’s Wallyrocket 51 Django WR claimed IRC 1, and the Youth Team on ELO II showcased the importance of mentoring future sailors, finishing impressively in ORC 1.
The transition to the offshore race brought its own challenges. The start in the Gulf of Saint-Tropez saw light breezes, with the 241 nautical mile course demanding tactical precision. The battle for line honours was fierce, with Furio Benussi’s ARCA SGR clinching victory, finishing in 1 day, 1 hour, 5 minutes, and 56 seconds, closely followed by Sir Lindsay Owen-Jones’ Magic Carpet E, only 5 minutes behind.
ARCA SGR’s win was significant, as the crew included young sailors from their youth project, marking a poignant moment in their journey. The race showcased the enduring rivalry and camaraderie present in offshore sailing, particularly between ARCA SGR and Magic Carpet E, known for their historical engagements in the Giraglia.
The overall victory on corrected time went to Bernard Arkas’ Turkish TP52 Arkas Blue Moon, lifting the Loro Piana Challenge Trophy. This marked a notable achievement for Turkish sailing, with Arkas Blue Moon’s unique dragon artwork symbolising the team’s commitment and cultural heritage.
The race featured strong performances across various classes, with Guido Paolo Gamucci’s Mylius 60 Cippa Lippa X leading IRC 0, while Roberto Bosio’s XR-41 Crabx excelled in ORC. The event concluded at Yacht Club Italiano in Genoa, where sailors exchanged stories over pasta al pesto, encapsulating the event’s spirit.
The 2026 Loro Piana Giraglia attracted over one thousand sailors from 49 nations, reinforcing its status as a premier international regatta. The blend of competition, elegance, and the shared experience continues to define this iconic race.
The 74th edition of the Loro Piana Giraglia is set for 11 – 19 June 2027, promising to uphold the tradition of excellence and camaraderie that has characterised this historic event for decades.
All information available on the event website: loropianagiraglia.com
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