VALLETTA, MALTA — With just four months until the 2026 Rolex Middle Sea Race, entries for the 47th edition are increasing. The Royal Malta Yacht Club is excited to report a strong and diverse international fleet, showcasing the race’s reputation as one of offshore sailing’s most prestigious and challenging events.
Returning competitors include Balthasar, the overall winner of the 2025 edition, led by Louis Balcaen, who aims to defend their title. Simon Toms, with his Zephyr team, returns after securing consecutive class wins in 2024 and 2025, now racing a new 13.4 metre (44 foot) IRC prototype built by NST. Slovenian entry Karpo, skippered by Maks Vrecko, is also a formidable competitor having previously won their class. Local favourite Lee Satariano, a two-time overall winner, will be back with his HH42, as co-skipper Christian Ripard seeks to compete in his record-setting 36th race.
The allure of the Mediterranean is strong for competitors from the Americas, including the Sun Fast 3300 Red Ruby, skippered by Justin and Christina Wolfe. This will be their third appearance, racing four-up after a remarkable second-place finish in 2023 by just 24 seconds against a fully-crewed maxi. The Wolfes will be joined by accomplished sailors Jonathan McKee and Carl Buchan, both Olympic champions.
The Wolfes expressed their excitement about returning to Malta, emphasising the race’s beauty and challenge, and looking forward to different conditions compared to previous years. Their preparation included a successful outing in the 3,800 nm Cap Martinique race in 2024, and they aim to refine their sailing strategies for the upcoming event.
McKee, who returns after missing the 2022 race, has unfinished business in the Rolex Middle Sea Race, lauding it as one of the world’s premier races. Buchan, making his debut in this race, has extensive experience in long-distance events and is eager to tackle the tactical challenges that lie ahead.
Buri, the Elan 333 returning from Croatia, had an adventurous 2025, completing a 2,300-nautical-mile journey that included the Rolex Middle Sea Race. Skipper Robert Šarić shared their thrilling experience of passing Stromboli at night, highlighting the race as the ultimate test of sailing skills amid beautiful scenery.
Lee Satariano and the crew of Artie are significant figures in the history of the race. Satariano, who has won twice, continues to prepare meticulously for the event, focusing on upgrades and maintenance to enhance performance. This year marks his 17th race, and he remains passionate about the challenges and camaraderie that the event brings.
The Rolex Middle Sea Race also includes a rich schedule of events, starting with the Cannes Malta Yacht Race on 5 October, followed by the Yachting Malta Coastal Race on 14 October. The final prize-giving will take place on 24 October at the historic Sacra Infermeria.
Entries for the 2026 Rolex Middle Sea Race close on 18 September 2026, with the fleet already attracting high-calibre competitors from across the globe.
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