Porto Cervo, 4 June 2026. The long-distance offshore race in the Range Rover Sardinia Cup concluded this morning with participants completing a course of approximately 130 miles. The start, originally scheduled for 3 p.m. CEST yesterday, was postponed due to strong Mistral winds, moving to 8 p.m. to align with a forecast drop in windspeed.
The start provided a spectacular view as the yachts set off on a reach at dusk near the islands of Li Nibani. The two classes began separately on a new course for many racers. After passing the islands of Mortorio and Soffi, the boats turned under gennaker to head into open sea, leaving a waypoint to the south-east before returning to San Teodoro’s coast, then racing north-east to the Range Rover waypoint, over 35 miles offshore. The first boats reached the Isola dei Monaci around 8:30 a.m., before a final leg towards the finish line off Porto Cervo. The wind eased to around 18–20 knots overnight, making for a long and challenging race without undue risk to crews.
In SC1, the winner was Ino Veritas from the RORC, followed by Django WR from YCCS and RocketNikka from the Yacht Club Repubblica Marinara di Pisa. Other finishers included Lisa R, Blue, and Xio, while Jolt 3 and Red Bandit had to retire due to damage, with the latter withdrawing from the event. Spirit of Lorina and Albator 3 chose not to compete in the long-distance race.
Dean Barker, tactician on Ino Veritas, remarked on the postponement decision, stating it was the right choice, albeit the wait complicated preparations. He praised the crew’s flawless execution during a demanding race in an exceptional setting. Italian sailor Gabriele Olivo expressed happiness for the return of the Sardinia Cup, emphasising that the event is not merely about pleasant weather but also about challenging conditions that test preparation and crew capabilities.
In SC2, the RORC also claimed victory with Per Roman’s Swedish GP42 Garm, followed by Ran from the RORC Gold team and Django JP from YCCS. Garm’s owner, Per Roman, expressed delight at this historic win for a Swedish boat and highlighted the beauty of the regatta course and the hospitality of the YCCS.
With the offshore race carrying double points and being non-discardable, the RORC now leads the overall standings of the Range Rover Sardinia Cup, followed by YCCS and the Yacht Club Repubblica Marinara di Pisa.
Two windward-leeward races are scheduled for tomorrow, 5 June, with the first start at 12 noon CEST, forecasted to see Mistral winds around 20 knots. A dinner for owners and guests will follow in the evening.
For further information, please visit the section dedicated to the regatta on YCCS website.
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