Info & News > FINAL 2025 CONTENDER WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP

FINAL 2025 CONTENDER WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP

MARK BULKA IS THE NEW WORLD CHAMPION 2025

Malcesine, 18 luglio 2025 – The 2025 Contender World Championship concluded today at Fraglia Vela Malcesine after five spectacular days of world-class sailing on the stunning waters of Lake Garda. The event brought together the very best of the international sailing community, with 12 nations proudly represented, combining sport, culture, and camaraderie in a celebration of excellence.

The championship officially opened with a vibrant opening ceremony at the historic palace in Malcesine, Palazzo dei Capitani, featuring a parade through the streets of Malcesine with all national flags of participating nations — a symbolic start to a week marked by strong competition and international spirit.

Racing Highlights

The regatta unfolded over three days of Qualifying Series and two days of Finals, testing sailors under varying and often challenging conditions.

Day One saw beautiful Ora winds allowing two full races to be completed for each of the four qualifying fleets — Blue, Green, Red, and Yellow.

On Day Two, despite lighter winds, the race committee skillfully delivered another full schedule of racing across all fleets.

Day Three brought uncertainty, with a morning storm delaying action. While fleets were sent out under a light northerly breeze, conditions worsened quickly, and all racing was ultimately abandoned for the day. Nonetheless, the evening featured a friendly get-together with local Stiegl beer and Redoro olive oil bruschetta — a signature Garda welcome and happy hour.

Day Four marked the start of the Finals, when only the Gold Fleet managed to race due to strong and unstable weather conditions. Racing was tight and intense, as sailors vied for positioning ahead of the decisive final day. But the final day saw both Gold and Silver fleets back on the water. Pelèr wind from the north brought ideal racing conditions — steady breeze, sunshine, and a wave pattern that tested the skills of the fleets. Thanks to these favorable conditions, we were able to complete races for both fleets, ensuring a fair and complete ranking across the board.

Day Five Pelèr wind from north brought ideal racing conditions — steady breeze, sunshine, and a wave pattern that tested the skills of the fleets. Thanks to these favorable conditions, we were able to complete races for both fleets, ensuring a fair and complete ranking across the board and determining the 2025 world title.

Fraglia Vela Malcesine, August 3, 2025