Nine seasons later, the ETF26 is flying higher than ever

In 2026, the ETF26 Series will compete in its 9th season : a symbolic milestone for a boat already approaching its 10th anniversary in 2027. And instead of slowing down, the class is accelerating.

What began as a predominantly French circuit has grown into a structured European championship, with three international events and a rapidly evolving competitive platform.

“In nine seasons, the class has evolved tremendously. We’ve gone from a largely French circuit to a structured European championship with three international events. We feel we’re reaching maturity — but above all, we’re still accelerating.” — Maxime Grimard, ETF26 Series Manager

A completely reinvented boat

Season nine also marks a major technical turning point: the arrival of the ETF26 FULL FOILING configuration.

For the first time, the boat now flies upwind, and in lighter breeze.

New rudder elevators.
New foils developed in Lorient with Guillaume Verdier and Avel Robotics.
A new North Sails sail package.
The result? Earlier lift. More stability. More performance

“Full foiling is a key milestone. We know the future of sailing lies in flying on all points of sail. Today, the ETF26 can do exactly that. It’s a major transformation — both for the spectacle and for the sporting level.” — Maxime Grimard

“The new foils unlock the full potential of the boat and reinforce the series as the best training platform toward SailGP or the America’s Cup.” — Pierre Picot, Owner of the ETF26 shipyard

A Fleet that keeps getting stronger

The 2026 season welcomes an ambitious new French team: Team Bams, led by 49er World Champions Erwan Fischer and Clément Péquin. Their arrival confirms the growing appeal of the series among top Olympic-level sailors.

Another strong signal: the return of one of the original teams in the class, Team Pro, with Tim Mourniac (Nacra 17) at the helm.

The rest of the fleet builds on last year’s strength, including:

Toroa Racing Team, with British duo John and Anna Gimson, Nacra 17 World Champions

Entreprises du Morbihan, led by Matthieu Salomon, three-time ETF26 Series winner

Blueshift Sailing Team, driven by Charles Dorange and Henri Demesmaeker

Sansin Sailing Team,

K-Challenge will also line up two boats : a “Youth” team and a “Women’s” team as part of their preparation for the 38th America’s Cup in Naples in 2027.

From Olympic campaigns to SailGP pathways, the championship confirms the diversity and depth of its fleet. With such a mix of profiles and experience, 2026 promises to be one of the most competitive seasons in the class’s history.

A truly international calendar

The season kicks off in Mar Menor, Spain, now a recurring and strategic venue for the circuit.

“CAR Murcia continues to welcome us with great enthusiasm. Our presence generates real local impact, both in terms of spectators and media. It’s become a favorite destination for the crews.”

The fleet then heads to Lake Garda, Italy, for two events : including a new stop in Campione , before moving straight into the iconic Foiling Week.

“Campione has wanted to host the class for two years. There’s strong local motivation. And the link with Foiling Week makes sense for optimizing logistics and increasing visibility for partners like Harken and North Sails.”

The season concludes in France, with a Grand Prix in Lorient, followed by the historic event in Quiberon.

“Finishing in France was important. Lorient places us at the heart of a high-visibility weekend following the Interceltic Festival, and Quiberon remains the oldest event in the championship. The strengthened support from local authorities, including the City of Quiberon, is a very positive signal.”