Two boats have retired from the 2026 Round Ireland Race as the fleet prepares for a challenging third night at sea in persistent light winds.
After 48 hours of racing, organisers confirmed the withdrawal of Polished Manx 2, the First 40.7 skippered by Kuba Szymański of Douglas Bay Yacht Club, and Purple Mist, Kate Cope's Sun Fast 3200.
The retirements come as competitors continue to contend with unusually light conditions around Ireland's west coast. The lack of wind has slowed progress across the fleet and is expected to extend race times compared with recent editions.
Manx Withdrawal — Kuba Szymański's First 40.7 Polished Manx 2 under sail before retiring to Kinsale. The Douglas Bay Yacht Club entry was among the first boats to withdraw from the 2026 Round Ireland Race Photo: Afloat
Despite the difficult conditions, the vast majority of the 51-boat fleet remains in contention as crews await a forecast increase in wind strength overnight and into Tuesday morning.
That expected breeze could prove pivotal in determining the next phase of the race, with boats seeking to position themselves advantageously before conditions improve.
The Round Ireland Race, organised by Wicklow Sailing Club, remains one of the premier events in offshore sailing, attracting competitors from Ireland, Britain and continental Europe.
