The Finn Class is delighted to launch the World Tour for Finns Grand Slam 2026.
The inaugural WTF Grand Slam year will include a series of key European events featuring iconic class venues as well as some enticing new locations. The concept is simple – encourage participation, showcase the class, highlight its stars, and enjoy some Finn fun.
The World Tour for Finns (WTF) is now in its fourth season, making it a perfect time to extend the concept to focus attention on specific events. The WTF encompasses 60 events across 25 countries worldwide; however, the Grand Slam in its inaugural year will have a European focus. Sponsorship and support are being sought to expand and further develop the Grand Slam in future years.
With over 1,200 Finn sailors participating in the WTF, it is anticipated that around 300-400 will qualify for the Grand Slam. The initiative aims to distribute prizes through the fleet, encouraging participation not just from the usual top competitors but also from sailors mid-fleet and further back, creating an inclusive shared experience for all.
In this first year, significant prizes and prize money have been tentatively put forward with the objective of enhancing interest, attendance, and media exposure for national events, marking a first for the class.
For the inaugural series:
- Nine events across eight countries from April to October.
- Four events will count towards the overall Grand Slam 2026 titles.
- Prizes and prize money will be extensive, reaching up to €1,000.
- Entries and prizes will be allocated to Gold, Silver, and Bronze groups.
- Separate categories will include U23 and U29, offering distinct prizes.
- The International Finn Association (IFA) will focus media and coverage on these events.
- A Grand Slam prizegiving, along with the Grand Slam Grand Final, is planned for the 2027 Finn Gold Cup in La Rochelle.
WTF Grand Slam 2026:
Leg 1: 17-19 April, Mediterranean Finn Cup, Palamos, ESP
Leg 2: 30 May – 1 June, Italian National Championship, Cannigione, Sardinia, ITA
Leg 3: 20-27 June, European Championship, Gydnia, POL
Leg 4: 3-5 July, British National Championship, Brixham, GBR
Leg 5: 21-23 August, SWE/DEN National Championship, Varberg, SWE
Leg 6: 2-6 September, Swiss National Championship, Silvaplana, SUI
Leg 7: 7-11 September, German National Championship, Berlin, GER
Leg 8: 18-20 September, Dutch National Championship, Medemblik, NED
Leg 9: 2-4 October, International Finn Cup, Malcesine, ITA
Further details will be published in due course.
It’s going to be another big year for the Finn Class. WTF? Let’s go Finn sailing!
#FinnClass #SailingNews #WorldTourForFinns #SailingAustralia #FinnGrandSlam
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