Major Sailing Events 'Unite' Under IRC Rating

15th September 2025

Afloat.ie Team

A classic sailing moment from an inshore race at the Admiral's Cup 2025 Credit: Rick Tomlinson

The Royal Ocean Racing Club (RORC) has announced the return of the Admiral’s Cup in 2027. This follows a successful comeback in 2025 after a 22-year break.

The Admiral’s Cup is noted for combining inshore races and offshore challenges, culminating in the iconic Rolex Fastnet Race on 24 July 2027.

In a related development, the Yacht Club Costa Smeralda (YCCS) will host the Sardinia Cup from 31 May to 7 June 2026.

Both events will utilise the IRC Rating Rule, ensuring continuity for competitors. "We are creating a natural synergy between these two great events," said Deb Fish, Commodore of RORC.

These announcements mark a significant moment for elite offshore team racing. The Sardinia Cup offers a platform for teams gearing up for the Admiral’s Cup in 2027.

Published in Admiral’s Cup

Tagged under

Admiral’s Cup

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At a Glance - Admiral's Cup 2027

The 2027 Admiral’s Cup will take place from 13–28 July 2027, based at Cowes Yacht Haven. Teams will contest a Short Offshore Race, a series of Solent Inshore Races, and the Rolex Fastnet Race to Cherbourg-en-Cotentin.

Entries open: 1 July 2026
Standard entry deadline: 28 February 2027
Late entries: accepted until 1 March 2027 (subject to approval)
Registration & inspection: 13–15 July 2027
Racing period: 16–28 July 2027
Prizegiving: 28 July 2027 in Cherbourg

The Notice of Race confirms a two-boat team format:

Admiral’s Cup 1 – IRC TCC 1.292–1.440 (13.41–17.10 m LOA, max draft 3.9 m)

Admiral’s Cup 2 – IRC TCC 1.125–1.282 (11.50–13.40 m LOA, max draft 3.4 m)