The Maxi Yacht Rolex Cup, one of the pre-eminent regattas in the Mediterranean, continues to combine spectacle, sailing excellence and innovation. Held annually in Porto Cervo off Sardinia, the 2025 edition took place from 7th to 13th September, under the joint auspices of the Yacht Club Costa Smeralda (YCCS), the International Maxi Association (IMA), and with Rolex as title sponsor.
This year marked multiple milestones. It was the 35th edition of the Maxi Yacht Rolex Cup. Also significant was the celebration of 40 years of partnership between Rolex and the regatta — Rolex first came on board in 1985 — and the event was imbued with tribute to YCCS’s founder, His Highness Aga Khan IV, who passed away earlier in 2025. A new perpetual trophy in his memory was announced, to be awarded at future editions.
The fleet, typically about 50 majestic monohulls each more than 18.29 metres (60 feet), faced demanding racing in the emerald-green waters and among the islands of the Maddalena Archipelago. Some scheduled races in the Grand Prix class were cancelled due to strong winds (in excess of 25-30 knots), complicating the windward-leeward schedule.
On the competitive front, the Maxi 1 class World Championship came down to the wire. David M. Leuschen and Chris Flowers’ Galateia claimed the title, taking it on countback from Leopard 3 after a final race that pushed every team to the limit. In another class, the Italian yacht Django 7X, owned by Giovanni Lombardi Stronati and sailed with tactician Vasco Vascotto, had an impressive campaign, finishing every race on the podium to win its class by a narrow margin over Jolt.
Other notable class winners included Moat in the Supermaxi class, and Vallicelli 78 H2O in Maxi 4, both demonstrating consistent speed and control.
Beyond the racing, the 2025 regatta underscored the importance of teamwork, precision, and innovation. The complexity of the vessels, the demands of coastal versus inshore racing, and the shifting wind and weather conditions made tactical decisions and seamless crew coordination decisive.
As the Maxi Yacht Rolex Cup moves into its fifth decade, it remains a highlight of the yachting calendar—not just for its high-stakes racing but for its heritage, beauty, and the way it continues to push the boundaries of what’s possible in sailing. The 2025 edition has added new chapters to a storied legacy, while setting the stage for further evolution in yacht design, crew skill, and regatta management in years to come.
