Racing for the rum in Miami

For one week each winter, the famed Coconut Grove neighborhood of Miami becomes the epicenter of the sailing world. Olympians meet amateurs on the dock. America’s Cup veterans share weather notes with rising talent. You cannot walk through “the Grove” without running into legends of the sport or the next generation eager to join them.

It begins in 2026 with the 99th Bacardi Cup on March 2-7, marking nearly a century of partnership between Bacardi and the Star Class. Four other classes – Snipe, Melges 24, J/70, and VX One – join March 5-7 on Biscayne Bay, making for nearly 200 entrants from 25 nations.

“To our returning sailors, welcome back; we are excited to have you here with us once again,” said Eddie Cutillas of Bacardi USA. “And to those joining us for the first time, we are delighted to see the word spreading about what makes this event so special. We hope this is just the beginning of your journey with us.”

The Star Class got underway on schedule in 15-17 knots with their format of one race a day, and it was Paul Cayard and Frithjof Kleen (USA) that won the first race, followed by six-time consecutive champions Mateusz Kusznierewicz/ Bruno Prada (POL) in second and Robert Scheidt/ Austin Sperry (BRA) in third.

“The competition is super strong,” said five-time Olympic medalist Robert Scheidt. “It’s like a world championship. There’s a mix of Olympic medalists, world champions, and legends of the sport. The racing is fierce, but the camaraderie is most special. That’s what makes the Star Class unique.”

Event details – Entry list – Results – Facebook