In a thrilling conclusion to the 2025 Star World Championship, Paul Cayard (USA) and Frithjof Kleen (GER) emerged victorious. The duo clinched the title in the final race held in Split, Croatia.
The last day brought clear skies and a steady breeze. By 2.20 pm, 101 boats set out on the water. The pressure was palpable as the top four teams battled for glory, with young Germans Nick Heuwinkel and Jesper Spehr also vying for a spot.
Tactical decisions defined the race. Diego Negri and Sergio Lambertenghi (ITA) opted for the left side of the course, closely followed by Mateusz Kusznierewicz (POL/BRA). Meanwhile, Cayard and Kleen took the right side, starting in a precarious 14th position.
As the race progressed, they began closing the gap. At the first top mark, Negri/Lambertenghi led, with local favourite Tonci Stipanovic and Tudor Bilic (CRO) trailing. By the second top mark, Cayard and Kleen had reduced the distance to their closest competitors.
Negri and Lambertenghi ultimately won the race. However, Cayard and Kleen secured seventh place, giving them a slim three-point margin to take the championship title.
“Big emotions for sure,” said Cayard after the race. “Every team had to deal with challenges, but we sailed smart.”
Kleen added, “This whole journey has meant so much. I want to thank our amazing team.”
Cayard claimed his second Star World title, 37 years after his first. For Kleen, it marks his third victory as a crew.
The 2026 Star World Championship will take place in Miami, Florida, from November 12–21.
