The International Star Class has confirmed its 2026 racing calendar, spanning two hemispheres and some of sailing’s most established venues. The season opens with the 99th Bacardi Cup in Miami from 1–7 March 2026 where three Cork boats are competing.
One of the sport’s longest-running regattas, the Bacardi Cup approaches its centennial in 2027. It stands alongside the Star World Championship as a cornerstone event of the class. Defending champions Mateusz Kusznierewicz (POL) and Bruno Prada (BRA) return to Miami on a six-year winning streak.
Hemispheres In Focus
The fleet heads north in May for the Western Hemisphere Championship at Gull Lake, Michigan, from 20–24 May. The inland venue is known for tactical racing and hosts the annual Vintage Gold Cup for classic wooden Star boats.
Attention then turns to Europe. The Eastern Hemisphere Championship takes place on Lake Balaton, Hungary, from 30 May to 6 June, hosted by Spartacus Sailing Club. Lake Balaton, Central Europe’s largest lake, has become a regular fixture on the international calendar.
European And North American Titles
The Star European Championship will be held at Regatta Centre Medemblik in the Netherlands. The venue has hosted numerous Olympic-class and World Sailing events.
Florida will stage the closing events of the season. The North American Championship is scheduled for 24–29 October at Davis Island Yacht Club. It serves as preparation for the Star World Championship, which returns to Miami from 5–14 November.
Reigning world champions Paul Cayard (USA) and Frithjof Kleen (GER) are set to defend their 2025 title. The Gold Star event follows the traditional long-course format, with legs of up to two miles and races lasting around two hours.
Youth Focus
The class says special arrangements for U30 sailors will continue throughout the season. Organisers state the initiative supports emerging talent entering one of sailing’s most demanding keelboat classes. With historic regattas and established venues, the 2026 season maintains the Star Class tradition of elite international competition.
