Italy’s Yacht Club Italiano Claims Victory at 14th Monaco Optimist Team Race

The 14th Monaco Optimist Team Race concluded this weekend at the Yacht Club de Monaco, bringing to a close a week of high-level competition that welcomed 15 teams from 12 countries to the Principality.

Italy’s Yacht Club Italiano claimed overall victory after a closely contested final phase, edging past Denmark’s Danish Dynamite team, who had led the standings for much of the regatta. Switzerland’s Gstaad Yacht Club completed the podium, while the Yacht Club de Monaco finished in eighth place.

Organised by the Yacht Club de Monaco, the event once again underscored its role as a key platform for the development of young international sailing talent in the Optimist class. The team racing format placed a strong emphasis on coordination, tactical decision-making and collective performance, encouraging sailors to compete as unified teams rather than as individuals.

The week also featured the event’s International Clinic, led by British coach Chris Atkins, offering participants advanced training in team racing techniques and strategy. Beyond the competition on the water, the programme promoted sportsmanship, learning and cultural exchange among young sailors from across Europe and beyond.

With another successful edition completed, the Monaco Optimist Team Race is set to return in 2027 for its 15th edition, continuing its role in nurturing the next generation of competitive sailors.