Record 416 sailors compete at Portugal Grand Prix in Vilamoura

The 8th Portugal Grand Prix Round 2 opened in Vilamoura with a record fleet of 416 sailors from 44 countries competing across five Olympic classes: 49er, 49erFX, 470, ILCA 6 and ILCA 7. The event brings together 316 boats and 108 coaches, marking the highest participation in the history of the regatta.

After a delayed start due to light and unstable morning conditions, racing began once a consistent southerly breeze established itself during the afternoon. Wind from 160 to 170 degrees at approximately 7 knots allowed the race committee to complete the first races of the competition.

Two races were completed for the 49er fleet on the opening day. All other fleets — 49erFX, 470, ILCA 6 Women, ILCA 6 Men and ILCA 7 — each concluded one race.

The regatta features a strong international field that includes several Olympic medalists. Odile van Aanholt of the Netherlands, gold medalist in the 49erFX at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, is among the competitors in Vilamoura. Sweden’s Vilma Bobeck, silver medalist in the 49erFX at Paris 2024, is racing this season with a new crew, while her former teammate Rebecca Netzler is present at the event as a coach. Spain’s Jordi Xammar, bronze medalist in the 470 class at the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games, is also competing.

The Portugal Grand Prix serves as an early benchmark in the Olympic cycle, attracting established medalists and emerging teams preparing for future international championships. The presence of athletes from 44 nations reflects the global reach of the event and reinforces Vilamoura’s role as a regular venue for Olympic-class sailing.

Racing continues throughout the week, with a full schedule planned across all classes, subject to weather conditions.