COWES, 6 August 2025:
The centenary Rolex Fastnet Race delivered all the drama and glory offshore sailing fans could ask for, as over 440 yachts took on the legendary 695-mile challenge. From Léon’s overall IRC victory to Black Jack 100’s stunning line honours finish — and with a breathtaking new race wrap-up video — the 2025 edition will be remembered as one of the greatest in Fastnet history.
To relive the action, a powerful new video wrap-up has been released, featuring onboard footage, emotional interviews, and epic sailing sequences. It’s a fitting tribute to the centenary milestone and a must-watch for offshore fans. Watch the video here.
The 2025 Rolex Fastnet Race marked 100 years of one of the world’s most revered offshore events, with a record 444 boats from around the globe departing from Cowes, UK, on the classic 695-nautical-mile course around Fastnet Rock and finishing in Cherbourg, France.
Among the many stories of seamanship and strategy, it was the French doublehanded entry Léon, a JPK 10.30, that claimed overall honours and the coveted Fastnet Challenge Cup on IRC corrected time. Skipper Alexis Loison, partnered with Jean-Pierre Kelbert, builder of JPK Yachts, credited the win to “solid strategy, fast reaching, and rock-solid boat performance,” particularly in breeze where Léon reached top speeds of 16–17 knots.
In the race for monohull line honours, it was Black Jack 100, skippered by Tristan Le Brun, that powered across the finish line first after 2 days, 12 hours, 31 minutes and 28 seconds at sea. Competing against supermaxis including SHK Scallywag and Leopard 3, Black Jack’s win was a surprise even to the crew. “We were the smallest maxi, but our preparation and teamwork made the difference,” Le Brun said.
This centenary edition was not just about speed — it was a celebration of the event’s storied past and global reach. Boats of every shape and size took part, including Corinthian crews, fully professional campaigns, and new-generation offshore racers.
For all race reports, photos, live blogs from competitors, tracker etc, please visit to: www.rolexfastnetrace.com
Full Results HERE
James Boyd/RORC
@RoyalOceanRacingClub
#RORCRacing
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