New Teams Set to Ignite Competition at Puerto Portals Sailing Week

The countdown to the 2026 52 SUPER SERIES season begins as Puerto Portals Sailing Week showcases heightened competition with 14 boats representing 11 nations. Here’s why the results from today’s practice races could reshape the upcoming battles on the water.

Today’s two practice races reveal a fierce level of competition. The crowded starts and tight mark roundings leave no room for error. New teams like Pieter Heerema's No Bay Back, Joakim Sundberg's Trinity, and Brazil's Caballo Loco aim for success, having shown promising performances during the PalmaVela regatta. Heerema's crew, primarily ex-American Magic Quantum Racing, clinched the PalmaVela title and now prepares for their 52 SUPER SERIES debut. Heerema emphasizes the need for focus and humility as he navigates the complexities of the TP52 class.

Trinity, with America's Cup winner Ed Baird as tactician, finished third in practice, stressing the importance of consistent improvement over time. Meanwhile, Brazil's Crioula Team, fresh off a second-place finish at PalmaVela, secured victory in the first practice race today, demonstrating their confidence with a strategic left-side start. Tony Langley’s Gladiator team also showcased their potential by winning the second race, signaling a competitive season ahead.