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21 Teams Gear Up for Exciting 2026 RORC Transatlantic Race

Editorial

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3 weeks ago

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On January 9, 2026, twenty-one teams representing nineteen nations are finalizing preparations in Lanzarote for the highly anticipated RORC Transatlantic Race. This event marks a significant challenge as participants will embark on a journey of 3,000 nautical miles to Antigua, with the race set to commence on Sunday at 12:30 GMT. Among the competitors are a mix of student crews and luxury superyachts, all eager to test their skills and equipment against the Atlantic’s formidable waters.

A Diverse Fleet Ready for Challenge

The RORC (Royal Ocean Racing Club), in collaboration with the International Maxi Association and the Yacht Club de France, has organized this prestigious race. Monohulls will begin first, followed by multihulls ten minutes later. The fleet features a wide range of vessels, from the largest superyachts to smaller, student-led entries. The fastest boats are expected to complete the crossing in under seven days, while others may take more than two weeks to finish.

Among the coveted trophies to be awarded is the RORC Transatlantic Race Trophy, which recognizes the overall winner based on IRC corrected time, a crucial metric in offshore racing. Other awards include the IMA Transatlantic Trophy for the first maxi yacht to finish and the Multihull Line Honours Trophy, which goes to the fastest multihull. The competition promises to be intense, particularly in the multihull category where a battle is brewing between familiar contenders, Argo and Zoulou.

Jason Carroll, representing Argo, expressed his excitement for the event: “It is a really exhilarating experience to travel that fast across the water, so getting to do that for 3,000 miles across the Atlantic is a thrill the whole time.” Ned Collier Wakefield of Zoulou anticipates a close race, stating, “If it turns into a downwind drag race, we’ll be glued to each other all the way across.” Both teams are equipped with advanced technology that enhances their stability and speed, setting the stage for a thrilling competition.

In the monohull category, the Baltic 111 Raven, designed for radical offshore performance, is favored to lead the pack. Project manager Klabbe Nylof noted that while Raven has previously crossed the Atlantic, this race will mark its first competitive transatlantic campaign. The overall IRC trophy remains competitive, with new entries such as the scow-bow 50-footer Palanad 4 adding to the excitement. Skipper Antoine Magre emphasized the importance of speed: “The goal is simple: go as fast as possible.”

The Superyacht Class features two of the largest contenders: Be Cool and Linnea Aurora, measuring 128 feet and 129 feet, respectively. In contrast, at the other end of the size spectrum, Ari Huusela and Annika Paasikivi will sail double-handed on Stimmy, which measures only 32.7 feet. Huusela remarked, “Our goal is simple: enjoy the sailing and finish safely,” embodying the adventurous spirit of the race.

Family connections and a drive for excellence characterize many teams. The J/125 Jackknife, helmed by Andrew and Sam Hall, and the Lift 45 Maxitude, raced by Xavier and Alexandre Bellouard, reflect a blend of experience and ambition. Additionally, teams like Walross 4, composed largely of students, arrive with a keen desire to learn and grow through this challenging experience.

As participants prepare for the race, the multihulls are likely to set new records for the fastest completion time. Yet, the allure of the RORC Transatlantic Race extends beyond the crossing itself. Antigua serves as a gateway to an extensive Caribbean racing schedule, including the RORC Nelson’s Cup Series and the RORC Caribbean 600 in February. Crews will seamlessly transition from a grueling Atlantic passage to some of the most competitive offshore and inshore racing in the region.

For teams focused on enhancing their performance and teamwork, the RORC Transatlantic Race offers an unparalleled opportunity to test their mettle across the ocean before tackling the 600-mile Caribbean classic. As excitement builds, all eyes will be on the fleet as it sets sail on this remarkable journey.

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