Ibiza JoySail sets clock ticking for Mallorca-Ibiza record
The challenge is on. Since 15 August, the Ibiza JoySail Perpetual Trophy has been setting superyachts against the clock as they gear up for the sixth edition of the race in Ibiza and Formentera between 17 and 20 September.
Ahead lies a 48-nautical-mile sprint from Punta Cala Figuera in Mallorca to the island of Tagomago in Ibiza, with a goal that is simple to explain but far harder to achieve: completing the crossing in the fastest time possible.
The window remains open until midnight on 16 September, leaving plenty of time for the yachts to take on the challenge and chase a new record. Timing will be key, with each team free to wait for the weather conditions it considers most favourable before setting sail.
3 hours and 31 minutes: the record to beat
The benchmark time belongs to Maximus, who in 2024 set the outright record for the Perpetual Trophy at 3 hours and 31 minutes.
The Perpetual Trophy also features records across different categories, allowing yachts of varying lengths and specs to chase their own benchmark times. One is Gelliceaux, who set the 100+ category record in 2024 with a time of 4 hours, 4 minutes and 3 seconds.
This year, Win Win, Gelliceaux, Point Counter Point, Fortissimo and Rose are among the potential challengers. The big question is how many will ultimately take on the challenge and – above all – when they will do so. Wind conditions, strategy and each yacht's performance will all be paramount.
The Owner Driver Award, new for 2026
The opening of the Perpetual Trophy sets the stage for Ibiza JoySail 2026, where the Corinthian spirit remains central to an event that combines high-octane racing with a more authentic sailing experience.
In line with this philosophy, a new feature in the sixth edition is the Owner Driver Award, a recognition in each class for the first yacht whose owner spends the majority of the race at the helm, including the start of every trial.
"We also want to recognise owners who choose to take the helm of their boats even at the most intense moments of racing", explains Nacho Postigo, Director of Ibiza JoySail.
The new award joins the Corinthian Trophy, which will continue to celebrate superyachts racing in their standard configuration, with their usual equipment, a limited selection of racing sails and a leaner crew on board.
With the clock already ticking, Ibiza JoySail 2026 is underway before the first starting signal has even sounded. In the next few weeks, all eyes will be on the 48 miles between Mallorca and Tagomago. And, of course, the burning question: will any of the contenders rewrite the Perpetual Trophy record or will Maximus' time of 3 hours and 31 minutes remain untouched?
