Princess Sofia Trophy marks start of LA 2028 cycle for British Sailing Team
by British Sailing Team 28 Mar 04:15 AEDT
Great Britain's Micky Beckett - 53 Trofeo Princesa Sofía Mallorca © World Sailing
What, where and when?
The Princess Sofia Trophy regatta will take place in Palma, Mallorca, from March 31 to April 5. This year there are four sites making up the event: Arenal (49er, 49erFX, Nacra 17, 470), Ca'n Pastilla (ILCA 6 and 7), Portixol (iQFOiL) and Playa de Palma beach (Formula Kite).
Who?
More than 1,700 sailors, coaches and support staff from 70 nations will descend on the Bay of Palma for the 54th edition of this prestigious regatta. The British Sailing Team is fielding 65 athletes in 51 boats and boards across the 10 classes. The 49erFX class has the largest representation, with 13 athletes from the British Sailing Team and British Sailing Squad taking to the start line.
The lowdown
Trofeo S.A.R. Princesa Sofia - or the Princess Sofia Trophy for us Brits - is the traditional season opener for the Olympic classes circuit, and the first regatta where all 10 classes compete. Last year it was all about the run-in to Paris 2024.
This year it's a significant moment in the countdown to the next Olympic Games, as the first multiclass regatta of the LA 2028 cycle. With over three years still to go until the world's finest do battle in Los Angeles, the Princess Sofia Trophy will mark a reset for many teams as they look to earn the first bragging rights of 2025.
Most of the British Sailing Team's Paris 2024 outfit are competing, along with a host of new faces itching to make their mark on the Olympic circuit.
Anything else?
Olympian Micky Beckett will have a huge target on his back having won the ILCA 7 class at Princess Sofia three years on the bounce. Can he make it four in 2025?
How do I follow the regatta?
The official website featuring results and the full entry list is here. There is live tracking available for those who want to analyse racing closely, plus live race status and daily highlights videos. Please note there is no livestream for this event. If you want to track the progress of the Brits the best place to do so is the British Sailing Team social media channels. Each day we will keep you posted on results, and feature the best photos the event has to offer.