The world's leading grand prix monohull sailing circuit starts in Sardinia today as a record fleet of 15 52 Super Series teams from 11 nations contest the Rolex TP52 World Championships at the Yacht Club Costa Smeralda in Porto Cervo. The American based team SLED, skippered by Japanese Takashi Okura lead the 2026 season after winning the first event in Puerto Portals just over a month ago. With more than half of the fleet considered genuine title contenders, the championships are expected to be one of the most competitive in the event's history.

Italian interest will be particularly strong with Andrea Lacorte's Alkedo among the leading contenders for the world title, and Vudu, owned by Mauro Gestri and based in Scarlino, makes its debut in the 52 SUPER SERIES. Having recently finished runner-up at the ORC World Championship, Vudu's participation represents a significant milestone for one of Italy's emerging grand prix sailing projects.

The regatta will take place on the waters off Porto Cervo from 16-20 June, with racing expected across a range of conditions from light Mediterranean breezes to strong Mistral winds, providing spectacular visuals and highly competitive racing.

A dedicated news team will be on-site throughout the event and is available to facilitate interviews, provide broadcast-ready footage, arrange access to all teams and sailors, and support broadcaster news requests.