Four Class40 yachts are now entered in the 2026 Round Ireland Yacht Race, lifting the overall fleet to 37 boats.
The latest entries add to the race’s international profile, with teams from France, Italy and the UK now confirmed in the high-performance offshore class.
Italy’s Luca Rosetti will race Maccaferri Futura, a 12.19m Class40 representing Club Nautico Rimini. Rosetti brings established offshore experience to the Wicklow start line.
France’s Djemila Tassin has entered Magenta, also a 12.19m Class40, continuing the growing French interest in the race.
American offshore sailor Greg Leonard, racing with his son this year, Hannes Leonard, will campaign Swift under the Royal Ocean Racing Club burgee, adding further depth to the Class40 line-up.
From Lorient, Pep Costa has entered VSF Sports, another 12.19m Class40, strengthening links with one of Europe’s key offshore racing hubs.
Wicklow Sailing Club is inviting Class40 teams back to Irish waters for the race start on Saturday, 20 June.
Organisers are targeting a strong turnout from the class, which has previously made a significant impression on the 704-nautical-mile course.
In 2018, the French Class40 Corum drew attention with a powerful start from Wicklow, helping establish the class’s reputation in Irish waters.
By 2022, the race secured a place on the official Class40 calendar, attracting increased international participation.
Race director Kyran O’Grady has continued to promote the event across European offshore networks.
“The Round Ireland is an iconic challenge that suits the Class40 ethos,” O’Grady previously told Afloat.ie.
The Notice of Race confirms a dedicated Class40 division for 2026, subject to a minimum of four entries and compliance with current class rules.
Entries remain open until 31 May.
