Registrations have officially opened for Barcolana58 Presented by Generali, with the world’s largest sailing race set to return to Trieste from 2 to 11 October 2026. Organisers confirmed that the historic training ship Amerigo Vespucci will join this year’s event, which expands across the Friuli Venezia Giulia region with a packed programme of sailing, sport and cultural activities.
The 58th edition was launched in Trieste on Wednesday under the new slogan “Be Barcolana”, aimed at strengthening the event’s identity through participation and community involvement.
Società Velica di Barcola e Grignano president Mitja Gialuz said the campaign reflects the inclusive spirit of the regatta. “Being Barcolana means participating, developing projects and living in harmony with the sea,” he said. “It is a journey we will reveal day by day.”
More than a thousand yachts are expected to line up in the Gulf of Trieste for Barcolana58 Presented by Generali, the world’s largest sailing race, from 2-11 October 2026. Photo: Studio Borlenghi
Online registration for the Autumn Cup regatta is now open and will remain available until 10 October via the official Barcolana website. The “Enter Barcolana Competition” also returns in partnership with Honda. Sailors entering before 31 July will double their chances of winning either a Honda WN7 YM2026 or a Honda SH125 Vetro scooter.
The event calendar includes returning favourites such as Barcolana Nuota, Barcolana Classic, Barcolana Maxi and Barcolana by Night. New additions for 2026 include Barcolana Cammina in Aquileia, the Italian Meteor Championship and the second edition of Barcolana Ski in partnership with PromoTurismoFVG.
Organisers also confirmed the expansion of the Barcolana Village into Trieste’s Borgo Teresiano district following the success of last year’s Borgo Cavana concept. Another new feature is “Lelio”, the official Barcolana mascot. The Labrador-inspired character, created by Trudi, will appear throughout the event and in official merchandise.
The Murphy&Nye x Barcolana58 clothing collection has also been unveiled in the new Blue Mirage and Istrian Stone White colours, with official polo shirts already available in selected stores. Generali continues as presenting partner and will again support the “Trofeo Generali Women in Sailing”, awarded to the first mixed crew led by a female skipper officially responsible for the yacht.
Emma Ursich, Head of Corporate Identity at Generali Group, said the initiative continues to promote greater awareness of mixed sailing and inclusion in the sport.
The “Ticket To Race” programme also returns, allowing sailors without boats to join organised crews and compete in the regatta under experienced skippers.
Tourism packages under the “Barcolana Experience” banner will go on sale from 1 June, including sailing academies, spectator RIB experiences and on-water hospitality packages.
