Uncertainty due to COVID 19 means a new format for the 68th edition of the classic offshore Giraglia race in June.

Organisers Yacht Club Italiano say particular difficulties on the French south coast which would prevent 'adequate organisation' of the event in St Tropez has resulted in a modified programme. 

The Rolex Giraglia will thus start on Wednesday, June 16 from Sanremo over a route of 243 miles with a mark in French waters off Cannes before heading for the Giraglia islet and returning to the Yacht Club Italiano in Genoa, where the prizegiving will be held on Saturday, June 19.

The new programme thus excludes the coastal races which were held in the three days before the offshore classic. For 2021 there will be two-night approach races towards Sanremo. Two legs of about 60 miles, one starting from Genoa and one from St Tropez, to allow Italian and foreign crews to race to the port where the long race will start.