RORC claims return of Sardinia Cup

The Royal Ocean Racing Club (GBR) won the 2026 Sardinia Cup, claiming the coveted trophy ahead of the Yacht Club Costa Smeralda (ITA) and RORC Gold (GBR). In the individual class standings, Ino Veritas (TP52) took victory in the Sardinia Cup 1 class for RORC, while Ran (Carkeek 40) topped the Sardinia Cup 2 class for RORC Gold.

The regatta for 2-boat yacht club teams, organized by the Yacht Club Costa Smeralda since 1978, returned this year after a 14-year hiatus. The 2026 edition took place in Porto Cervo on June 2-7, with the next edition scheduled for June 4-11, 2028, alternating with the Admiral’s Cup, which the Royal Ocean Racing Club organizes in the UK in odd-numbered years.

“We’ve had a fantastic week, making the most of a format that rewards teamwork, just like the Admiral’s Cup,” noted James Neville, owner of Ino Veritas. “That’s the most important aspect of the Sardinia Cup: the result counts at team level, not for individual boats, and success comes from collaboration and mutual support between teammates.

“The Sardinia Cup is a trophy steeped in history and we are proud to see our name, representing the Royal Ocean Racing Club, alongside those of so many great teams from the past. The standard of competition was extremely high and we know it will be even higher at the next Admiral’s Cup.”

Neville’s teammate Per Roman, owner of the GP42 Garm, finished third in SC2. “I’ve been working with James [Neville] for two years and I couldn’t ask for better,” noted Roman. “The whole team worked hard and the offshore race was key, winning it gave us the momentum needed for our ultimate success.

“After the Admiral’s Cup, we were determined to keep improving, knowing that the Sardinia Cup would be our next big objective. We invested in a more competitive boat and gradually upgraded our equipment to match our teammates, who competed exceptionally this week.

“We know there’s still room for improvement, the boat is new to us and this is only the beginning. Over the winter, we’ll put in a lot of work to become even better and faster. One thing is certain, though: Porto Cervo is a special place and I hope to keep coming back here for the rest of my life.”

Details: https://www.yccs.it/en/regattas-2026/range_rover_sardinia_cup-3343.html