The Royal Malta Yacht Club is preparing to host the start of the 66th edition of the prestigious Malta–Syracuse Race, one of the oldest offshore yacht races in the Mediterranean.

Scheduled to begin on Saturday, 12 July, the 80-nautical-mile race has been a cornerstone of offshore sailing since it was conceived in 1952 by legendary British sailor John Illingworth. Over the decades, the event has established itself as a key fixture on the regional sailing calendar, attracting crews eager to test their skills in a competitive yet friendly environment.

Organised jointly by the Royal Malta Yacht Club and the Lega Navale Italiana – Sezione di Siracusa, the race alternates its starting location each year between Malta and Sicily. This year, the fleet will depart from Malta and finish in Syracuse, with entries already being received from both countries.

The event continues to embody the strong relationship and friendly sporting rivalry that has existed between the Maltese and Italian sailing communities since the race’s inception more than seven decades ago.

Turkish Airlines Joins as Supporting Partner

The Royal Malta Yacht Club has also announced the support of Turkish Airlines, which will back the next two editions of the race. The partnership is expected to further enhance the international profile and prestige of one of the Mediterranean’s most enduring offshore competitions.

A Proud Maltese Legacy

Since the inaugural race in 1952 — won by John Illingworth himself — Maltese sailors have enjoyed considerable success in the Malta–Syracuse Race, building a proud tradition of excellence that continues to this day.

One of the earliest Maltese victories came in 1955 when Maj. A. Borda’s Saluki claimed line honours, laying the foundations for decades of local success.

The 1960s and 1970s proved particularly fruitful for Maltese competitors. P.W. Ripard’s Sylla secured back-to-back victories in 1965 and 1966, while John Ripard guided Tai-Lux to success in 1968. The following years saw Tikka dominate with consecutive victories in 1969 and 1970. Peon, sailed by R. Insley and B.F. Maccabe, triumphed in 1971 before Vincenzo Valentino’s Anna II claimed victory in 1972.

Maltese success continued into the 1980s. P.R. Ripard’s Lilli won in 1982, followed by another triumph for Lilli, this time under Ray De Miccoli, in 1984. Marco Borg’s Vega added another Maltese victory in 1986.

The new millennium brought further success, with David Franks steering Strait Dealer to victory in both 2003 and 2006.

In more recent years, contemporary Maltese crews have proudly maintained this winning tradition. Sonke Stein’s Juno secured victories in 2010 and 2014, while Aaron Gatt Floridia’s Otra Vez claimed top honours in 2017. The Podesta family’s Elusive II triumphed in 2019, followed by Lee Satariano’s Artie III in 2020. Sebastian Ripard’s Calypso won the race in 2023, while Sean Borg’s Jubatus most recently lifted the trophy in 2024.

Valuable Offshore Challenge Trophy Points on Offer

As in previous years, competitors will not only be racing for Malta–Syracuse honours but also for valuable points towards the Offshore Challenge Trophy standings, adding further significance to the event.

With its rich history, competitive fleet and enduring tradition of international camaraderie, the Malta–Syracuse Race remains one of the highlights of the Mediterranean sailing season and an important part of the Royal Malta Yacht Club’s offshore racing programme.

Registration for the race is now open online through the Royal Malta Yacht Club’s official website.