Eight Bells: Carlo Borlenghi

Italy’s Carlo Borlenghi, one of the great photographers for sailing, died suddenly in the early hours of August 3, 2026 at his home town of Bellano on Lake Como. He was 70.

Carlo’s career began photographing local regattas before a collaboration with Uomo Mare Vogue opened the door to the international sailing circuit.

His first America’s Cup came in 1983, when he joined Italy’s pioneering Azzurra challenge in Newport, Rhode Island. He become an ever-present figure at the America’s Cup along with every major sailing event while transforming the profession of sailing photography.

Carlo was widely admired with an outpouring from his colleagues when learning of his passing:

• Carlo wasn’t just an extraordinary photographer—he transformed the way we all saw sailing. He had an uncanny ability to make every day on the water look spectacular, no matter how impossible the conditions. He never settled for the obvious photograph. He was always searching for the image no one else saw. – Sharon Green

• Carlo Borlenghi was a top leader in the art of nautical photography, and his work is truly inspiring. He had a brilliant, unique vision, filled with interesting angles and dramatic light. You can always identify his style in a glance! As a photographer, that is the highest compliment I can give. – Cory Silken

• Every sailing photographer has, in some way, been inspired by Carlo Borlenghi. – Steve Cloutier

• I learnt so much – not only about photography, but about passion, dedication and seeing the beauty of sailing. His images inspired generations of sailors and photographers alike, and his legacy will continue to do so for many years to come. – Andrea Francolini

• He taught me the importance of searching for better angles. He inspired me to look harder, move faster, and think differently when hunting down the America’s Cup boats from the water. He was, quite simply, one of the most gifted sailing photographers the sport has ever known. – Jon Nash

He is survived by his wife Alessandra, family, friends and an international sailing community that owes much of its visual history to his extraordinary and rare talent.