Melges 24 Title Events 2026 Confirmed by IM24CA World Council
26 February, 2025 - On February 25, 2025, the IM24CA World Council convened for an Extraordinary Meeting to determine the host venues for the 2026 Melges 24 World and European Championships and to confirm the nomination of the Treasurer.
2026 Melges 24 World Championship – Harbor Springs, Michigan, USA
The 2026 Melges 24 World Championship will take place in Harbor Springs, Michigan, USA, hosted by the Little Traverse Yacht Club (LTYC) in October. Following an internal vote among multiple candidate venues, the US Melges 24 Class officially submitted LTYC’s bid, which was subsequently approved by the IM24CA World Council.
Established in 1895, Little Traverse Yacht Club has a rich tradition of competitive sailing and is renowned for hosting premier regattas, including the Ugotta Regatta and the annual Little Traverse Yacht Club Race Week. The club’s location on Lake Michigan’s Little Traverse Bay provides excellent fresh-water sailing conditions, with steady winds and a stunning natural backdrop—an ideal setting for the Melges 24 Worlds.
Michigan has long been a hub of Melges 24 activity, serving as the heart of the Midwest region. Over the past five years, the state has successfully hosted the Quantum Sails Melges 24 Great Lakes Cup Series, further solidifying its position as a cornerstone of the U.S. Melges 24 Class.
The championship is scheduled for October, a month known for favorable sailing conditions, including warm water temperatures, ample daylight, and consistent West/Southwest and Northeast winds, typically averaging 10 knots.
2026 Melges 24 European Championship – Tønsberg, Norway
The 2026 Melges 24 European Championship will be held in Tønsberg, Norway, hosted by Tønsberg Seilforening in late August or early September.
Tønsberg, Norway’s oldest town, is a picturesque coastal city in the Vestfold og Telemark region, located approximately 100 km south of Oslo. Steeped in Viking history, Tønsberg is known for its stunning waterfront, rich cultural heritage, and vibrant sailing community.
Tønsberg Seilforening has a strong reputation for developing top-tier sailors, particularly in one-design racing. The waters of Tønsberg offer a dynamic mix of conditions influenced by the North Sea, ranging from light air to strong winds, ensuring a challenging and tactical racing environment. It is located in the Oslofjord, which provides more sheltered waters compared to the open North Sea.
Competing against a strong bid from Yacht Club Sanremo, Italy, Tønsberg ultimately won the vote, securing 40 votes in favor.
IM24CA Treasurer Confirmed
Additionally, Miles Quinton will continue in his role as IM24CA Treasurer, as he was the sole candidate for the position.
2025 Melges 24 Worlds in Trieste – Notice of Race Published
Meanwhile, preparations are in full swing for the 2025 Melges 24 World Championship in Trieste, Italy. The Notice of Race has been published, and registration is now open.
Stay tuned for further updates as the global Melges 24 fleet gears up for an exciting season ahead!