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The 2026 Giro d'Italia Vela kicks off with an electrifying start from Venice, showcasing a fleet of ten Bénéteau Figaro 3s. Here’s why this race is a crucial moment in the season for sailors and fans alike.
The official launch, delayed to 1:00 PM due to heavy traffic in the lagoon, marked the beginning of a thrilling journey to Cattolica. Initially facing a light southeast breeze, the competitors navigated slowly out of the Gulf of Venice. However, the winds picked up dramatically, reaching gusts of 18 knots, testing the sailors' tactical skills.
By evening, the results were in: the Guardia di Finanza's Figaro 3, helmed by Paolo Cian, clinched first place. The British team from Verein Seglerhaus am Wannsee (VSaW) followed closely in second, while another Italian Navy vessel, led by Andrea Pendibene, took third.
Impressively, the leg concluded without any incidents or protests, highlighting the crews' focus and the excellent management by race officials.
Looking ahead, the Gulf of Cattolica prepares for tomorrow’s InShore trials, featuring not only the Figaro 3s but also the fast Waszp and dynamic WingFoils. An adrenaline-fueled spectacle awaits both racers and spectators.
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