The final round of the 2026 Cape 31 Mediterranean Series got under way in spectacular fashion at Hyères, with 20 teams completing three races in the conditions that have made the French venue a favourite among sailors.
As previously reported by Afloat, the Mediterranean finale brings together a strong international fleet for the concluding round of the season, with the series champions set to be crowned at next month’s inaugural Cape 31 Gold Cup in Saint-Tropez.
After a two-hour postponement while waiting for the breeze to settle in, the fleet was rewarded with glorious westerly winds, flat water and steadily building conditions throughout the afternoon.
Fleet Formation — The Cape 31 fleet spreads across Hyères waters as 20 teams begin their Mediterranean Series finale campaign in close-fought opening races. Photo: Sailing Energy
With three different race winners and close competition across the fleet, the opening day delivered an ideal start to the final showdown of the Mediterranean season.
Stella Maris enjoys special Hyères return
For August Schram, owner of Stella Maris, racing in Hyères carries particular significance given the venue’s Olympic sailing heritage.
“The reputation of this place is incredible. We have Olympians on board who talk about the history of sailing here and how special it is to race in these waters. Today, Hyères delivered exactly that for us,” Schram said.
Stella Maris Surge — August Schram’s Stella Maris charges through the Hyères racecourse as the team opened the Cape 31 Mediterranean Series finale with a second-place overall result after three races. Photo: Sailing Energy
Stella Maris ended the opening day second overall, with Schram highlighting consistency as the foundation of their performance.
“Consistency is key. We had a small change in the crew, but everyone was really focused, and we worked well together. It’s super tight, and anything can happen over the next two days!”
Three races, three different winners
Chisum claimed the opening race victory, while Khumbu made an immediate impression by leading the fleet around the first windward mark. La Pericolosa also showed early pace, finishing second and establishing themselves among the leading contenders.
Race two produced one of the closest battles of the day, with La Pericolosa leading for much of the race before Stig took victory on the final downwind leg.
Stig Surge — Stig powered to victory in the second race of the day after a close battle with La Pericolosa during the Cape 31 Mediterranean Series finale. Photo: Sailing Energy
Eker Süzme delivered the strongest performance in the final race, taking a commanding win and opening a significant advantage over the chasing boats.
Give Me Five and G-Spot also delivered notable displays, while newcomers Niramo marked their first Hyères appearance with an impressive podium result.
Khumbu brings UK form to Mediterranean fleet
Fresh from winning the UK Cape 31 season and National Championship, Guy Gillon’s Khumbu team carried their strong domestic form into a much larger Mediterranean fleet.
“It’s a much busier start line, with the fleet almost double the size of what we’re used to in the UK. It was good for us to test our legs. We were fast, but we made a few manoeuvre errors, so we’ll try to iron those out tomorrow,” Gillon said.
Racing in Hyères for the first time, he was impressed by both the venue and the scale of the competition.
“It’s a great setup and amazing to see so many boats lined up. The wind is good, it’s warm, so we’re very happy!”
Niramo Debut — Newcomers Niramo made an immediate impact on their first Cape 31 Mediterranean Series appearance, securing a podium finish on the opening day in Hyères. Photo: Sailing Energy
La Pericolosa holds early advantage
After three races, La Pericolosa leads the standings on 11 points, followed by Stella Maris on 16 and Stig on 17, with only six points separating the top three teams.
The fleet returns to racing tomorrow with a stronger breeze forecast and plenty still to be decided in both the regatta and the overall Mediterranean Series standings.
The 2026 Cape 31 MED Series champions will be crowned at the opening reception of the inaugural Cape 31 Gold Cup in Saint-Tropez next month.
