Global disruption impacts Bermuda Race

There was much excitement when the legendary 100-foot canting keel yacht Palm Beach XI became the 100th boat to register for the 2026 Newport Bermuda Race. Formerly known as Wild Oats XI, the yacht has won nine line honors and two overall victories in the storied Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race.

Now rebranded with new owner Mark Richards at the helm, and a significant refit that converted the storied yacht into a foiling supermaxi, one of the world’s most celebrated ocean-racing yachts would compete on the 636 nm course.

But plans change. Richards now reports that ongoing global disruptions, including shipping uncertainty and escalating fuel costs, have made it impossible to guarantee the legend could be transported from Australia and fully prepared in time for the June 19 start.

While the opportunity to see Palm Beach XI attempt to break the race record will have to wait, Richards will be en route to Bermuda on a Palm Beach 70 and participating in the daily 20-minute broadcast, providing weather updates, expert commentary, and interviews directly from competitors in the race.

Details: https://bermudarace.com/

Held biennially, the 54th Newport Bermuda Race in 2026 will be its 120th anniversary and also the 100th anniversary of the Cruising Club of America’s partnership with the Royal Bermuda Yacht Club in co-organizing the 636 nm course.