Following a season of consolidation and extended cruising in 2025, the iconic J Class fleet is preparing for a notable resurgence in activity during the 2026 season, driven by renewed ownership momentum, fresh leadership and a clear focus on competitive racing.
After the high point of 2024’s J Class Barcelona Regatta, held alongside the 37th America’s Cup, a quieter year was widely anticipated. However, several key developments now signal a renewed chapter for one of sailing’s most prestigious and historic classes.
New Ownership and Leadership Fuel Momentum
A major catalyst for renewed activity is the acquisition of J Class yacht Rainbow by Peter Harrison, Admiral’s Cup-winning owner and founder of the highly successful Jolt Sailing Team. Harrison’s entry brings fresh energy and a clear racing ambition, with Rainbow set to follow an active class-focused programme.
Equally significant is the return of Louise Morton as Head of the J Class Association, marking her third tenure in the role. Morton’s renewed leadership aims to strengthen owner engagement, rebuild participation and ensure long-term sustainability for the class.
Palma and Saint-Tropez Named as Key Racing Venues
Based on owner and crew consensus, the Palma Superyacht Regatta (24–27 June 2026) and Les Voiles de Saint-Tropez (26 September–4 October 2026) will act as the principal competitive focal points of the season.
Both Rainbow and Svea are expected to compete under the J Class handicap system at these headline Mediterranean events.
Rainbow will be sailed by an international crew drawn from the Jolt Sailing Team, whose wider racing programme includes Mazi 72 and TP52 campaigns, with an eye on the Admiral’s Cup 2027.
Svea and Shamrock V Build Competitive Programmes
The owners and crew of Svea are also looking forward to returning to the racecourse after an extensive cruising season in 2025 that included the U.S. East Coast and the Caribbean. The team enters 2026 with renewed motivation, a partially refreshed crew line-up and the added competitive stimulus of Rainbow’s return.
Meanwhile, Shamrock V—the original and oldest J Class yacht—continues to increase her activity following an extensive refit. After completing a 4,500-nautical-mile shakedown cruise and racing at Les Voiles de Saint-Tropez in late 2025, the yacht is planning a fuller programme for 2026. This includes appearances at the Cyclades Cup, Spetses Classic Regatta, and a J Class Rendezvous scheduled for August.
Looking Ahead
While Velsheda is undergoing a major refit and will sit out the 2026 season, the construction of J-2, the next J Class build, continues and is expected to join class activities in 2027.
With renewed leadership, motivated owners and a clear event structure, the J Class appears well-positioned for a revitalised 2026 season—balancing heritage, performance and modern superyacht racing ambition.
