The world’s top sailing clubs have gathered in Vilamoura, Portugal, for the 2024 SAILING Champions League Final, marking the culmination of an exciting season of competition. From September 26 to 29, 24 elite teams will face off in the picturesque coastal town, vying for the prestigious title after earning their spots through a series of rigorous qualifiers. The event, hosted in partnership with Vilamoura Sailing, promises to be a high-stakes showdown between the best sailors in the J/70 class.
Among the competitors are teams from across the globe, including Richmond Yacht Club from California, who qualified through the American Sailing League’s debut, and Australia’s Royal Prince Alfred Yacht Club, representing the Asia Pacific region. Defending champions Åländska Segelsällskapet from Finland will be in the spotlight as they attempt to secure a consecutive win after their 2023 triumph. They’ll face stiff competition from Norddeutscher Regatta Verein, the 2022 champions from Germany, fielding an impressively young team.
For the first time in the event’s history, a team from the United States will compete in the SAILING Champions League Final. Richmond Yacht Club made waves by earning their spot through the inaugural American Sailing League, showcasing the growing prominence of American sailing on the global stage. Their presence adds a new layer of excitement and anticipation, as fans from across the States rally behind them in their quest for international glory. This historic moment highlights the increasing competitiveness of American sailing in the elite J/70 class.
The level of competition is set to be fierce, with seasoned sailors like Poland’s Rafal Sawicki and Norway’s Seilsportsligaen qualifiers pushing the limits. As the action unfolds over the next four days, the sailing world will be watching closely, eager to see which team will emerge as the 2024 SAILING Champions League victor. With teams from around the world competing at the highest level, this year’s final promises to be a thrilling display of talent and strategy.
To learn more and follow along, please visit https://sailing-championsleague.com/season-2024/