The ClubSwan 50 fleet gathers in the Gulf of Naples for the ClubSwan 50 One Design Worlds, bringing together eleven teams from five nations and sailors representing 19 countries for the grand finale of the 2026 season.
Napoli – For the first time, Naples will host the ClubSwan 50 One Design Worlds, welcoming the highly competitive ClubSwan 50 fleet to the spectacular setting of the Gulf of Naples. With the iconic profile of Mount Vesuvius overlooking the racecourse, the event promises a memorable celebration of sailing, performance and the unmistakable ClubSwan spirit.
Following the Rolex Swan Cup, which celebrated Nautor Swan’s 60th anniversary with a record 170 entries, the ClubSwan fleet returns to the water for one of the most anticipated events of the season. One class, one passion, one World Champion: the ClubSwan 50 World Championship brings together eleven teams from five nations, with sailors representing 19 countries, for the ultimate showdown of the 2026 racing season.
Hosted by Circolo del Remo e della Vela Italia in partnership with ClubSwan Racing, the championship will also determine the winner of the 2026 Nations League circuit. The ClubSwan 50 class is governed by strict one-design rules overseen by the International ClubSwan 50 Class Association, ensuring close competition and placing the emphasis firmly on sailing skills, teamwork and tactical precision. The programme features windward-leeward racing, with the possibility of a coastal race subject to weather conditions.
Naples: a stage for world-class sailing
The choice of Naples provides a fitting setting for the championship. With a rich maritime heritage and a long-standing connection to international sailing, the city offers a unique backdrop for competition at the highest level.
Roberto Mottola, President of Circolo del Remo e della Vela Italia, said:
“Following Luna Rossa’s outstanding performance at the Preliminary Regatta a few weeks ago, the ‘Italia’ Yacht Club is once again riding high as it hosts the ClubSwan 50 World Championship. We’re welcoming eleven owners and crews from all over the world, including many well-known sailors, and I’d like to mention Paul Cayard. Naples is a sailing capital, a unique racecourse, and our sport sends a unique message.”
Founded in 1889 in the historic waterfront district of Santa Lucia, where its clubhouse remains today, Circolo del Remo e della Vela Italia is one of the world’s oldest yacht clubs. Its distinguished history includes launching the challenge for the 38th America’s Cup on behalf of Luna Rossa, as well as hosting major international events such as Tre Golfi Week.
A world title to defend
Among the teams lining up in Naples, all eyes will be on Earlybird, skippered by German owner Hendrik Brandis, as the reigning World Champion seeks to defend the title won in Porto Cervo in 2025.
The team’s success follows years of commitment to the class since its foundation, including three previous second-place finishes at the World Championship. Their return sets the stage for another closely contested battle against an international fleet of accomplished teams.
The Italian challenge includes Cuordileone, Giuliana, Marlin Cube and Ulika. Germany will be represented by Hatari and Olymp, while the British team Perhonen, the Dutch entry Volpe, Turkey’s All in One and Egypt’s Lady Ghada, with a woman at the helm, complete the line-up contributing to the international character of a fleet that embodies the inclusive spirit and competitive excellence of ClubSwan Racing.
With a diverse international fleet and the title at stake, the championship promises racing in which every start, manoeuvre and tactical decision could prove decisive.
Ten years of ClubSwan 50
Created to mark Nautor Swan’s 50th anniversary, the ClubSwan 50 has established itself as one of the defining models of the brand’s one-design racing programme. Ten years after its introduction, the class continues to attract experienced owners and professional sailors, combining high-performance design with an international racing circuit built around close competition and a strong sense of community.
As Gianguido Girotti, CEO of Nautor Swan, commented:
“ClubSwan 50 was created to celebrate the brand’s 50th anniversary, and after ten years, it continues to demonstrate its competitiveness and a vibrant racing circuit. Naples will be a spectacular setting for our event, which brings an important season to a close.”
Racing and the ClubSwan spirit
Racing begins on Wednesday, with the first race scheduled for 12 noon, and continues through Saturday. A maximum of eight races are planned, with the Race Committee retaining the option to include a coastal race if weather conditions allow.
Beyond the competition, the championship will once again bring together owners, sailors and guests in the distinctive atmosphere that defines ClubSwan Racing: a shared passion for sailing, the pursuit of excellence and the relationships that extend well beyond the racecourse.
In Naples, the ClubSwan 50 fleet will close the 2026 season in a setting where maritime tradition meets contemporary sailing performance — with one World Champion to be crowned and the ClubSwan spirit at the heart of it all.
Swan One Design Nations League Partners
Main Partners: Rolex, Denza Italia, Henri Lloyd, Banor.
Technical Partners: Sartoria Dal Cuore, Filette Prime Water, Ethimo, Bricco Falchet, Gottifredi Maffioli, Quantum Sails, North Sails, Doyle Sails, Garmin Marine, B&G, Triacca Trasporti.
