The 2026 Etchells World Championship concluded in San Diego after five days of close racing and strong international competition. A total of 76 teams from 11 countries contested nine races on the Coronado Roads course, with Magpie AUS 1526 emerging as overall champion.
The Australian boat, sailed by James Mayo, Paul Cayard and Ben Lamb, secured the title after winning the final race of the regatta.
San Diego Yacht Club Commodore Alli Bell praised the scale of the championship and the efforts behind the event. “Over the last five days we had nine races with 278 competitors over 76 teams from 11 countries,” Bell said. “I’d like to thank the almost 200 volunteers, our staff and all the competitors for making this regatta truly amazing.”
Podium Push — Scott Kaufman, Goncalo Ribeiro, Lucas Calabrese and Hugo Rocha of Rogue USA 1519 celebrate second overall at the 2026 Etchells World Championship in San Diego. Photo: Mark Albertazzi
Bronze Battle — John Sommi, Beccy Anderson, Victor Diaz de Leon and Will Ryan of Encore USA 1529 secured third overall at the 2026 Etchells World Championship in San Diego. Photo: Mark Albertazzi
The Corinthian division title went to No Dramas GBR 1490. “To win the Corinthian prize is such an incredible achievement that we are really proud of,” said Graham Vials. “Genuinely, I feel that there isn’t a better fleet out there when it comes to strength of talent.”
Corinthian Cheers — Andrew Lawson, Graham Vials and Billy Russell of No Dramas GBR 1490 with Pat Stadel after winning the Corinthian division at the 2026 Etchells Worlds in San Diego. Photo: Mark Albertazzi
Attention now turns to Hong Kong, which will host the next Etchells World Championship from 9–13 November 2027. Two Hong Kong entries competed in San Diego, including Racer Smitty HKG 1496 and Shrub HKG 912.
“It’s fantastic to have the Etchells Worlds back in Hong Kong next year,” said Mark Thornburrow.
“The fleet has grown significantly since the last time we hosted in 2015,” added Jamie McWilliam.
Organisers also confirmed that nearly $3,500 was raised during the regatta week through raffles supporting the San Diego Yacht Club Junior Programme. The 2028 Etchells World Championship is scheduled to take place in Cowes, hosted by the United Kingdom Etchells fleet.
