The ORC European Championship Takes Center Stage at the 43rd Copa del Rey MAPFRE

26 July 2025 - Palma de Mallorca, Spain - The 43rd edition of the Copa del Rey MAPFRE has officially begun at the Real Club Náutico de Palma (RCNP), marking the start of a landmark week in Mediterranean sailing. For the first time in the event’s prestigious history, the regatta is hosting the ORC European Championship, elevating the competition to a new level.

The opening ceremony took place on Saturday in RCNP’s Sala Magna, featuring club and local officials, sponsors, and class representatives. Among them was Alberto Pindozzi, ORC Super Yacht Manager, who shared his enthusiasm for the venue and the collaboration:

“This is a great spot with excellent infrastructure, and we thought — why not? Why not hold the Europeans along with Copa del Rey? And here we are, with 120 boats.”

The integration of the ORC Europeans into Copa del Rey has drawn a world-class fleet of nearly 120 teams from 24 countries, including more than 1,700 sailors, competing across multiple classes. The ABANCA ORC 0 class alone features a spectacular lineup of eleven TP52s, making it one of the most competitive fields ever assembled in Palma.

RCNP Director Manuel Fraga noted the significance of this moment:

“Since its first edition in 1982, Copa del Rey MAPFRE has led the way in Spanish offshore sailing. Hosting the ORC European Championship for the first time in our history is a natural progression and a true honor.”

With registration and measurement already underway, official racing will begin on Tuesday, July 29, following Monday’s practice races. The event runs through August 2, promising a week of exceptional racing and celebration both on and off the water.

Stay tuned for more from the Bay of Palma as the ORC European Championship unfolds in one of the world’s premier sailing arenas.