Grand Return of the J Class at Les Voiles de Saint-Tropez
by Maguelonne Turcat 21 Jun 04:42 PDT
30 September - 4 October 2026
Les Voiles de Saint-Tropez © Gilles Martin-Raget
The perfect blend of sport, elegance, and conviviality will once again take centre stage from September 26 to October 4, when the 28th edition of Les Voiles de Saint-Tropez takes place.
Expertly orchestrated by the teams at the Société Nautique de Saint-Tropez, this unique gathering welcomes everyone within a relaxed and spontaneous environment. With its three fleets - Modern yachts, Classic yachts, and Maxis - diversity is part of its DNA, while the return of the J Class yachts promises to be one of the event's highlights. Coming from all four corners of the world, around 3,500 sailors will gather to celebrate a unique art of racing in the spectacular setting of the Gulf of Saint-Tropez.
A Spectacle Like No Other
Stroll along the dock in the evening and admire the intricate rigging of some of the world's finest classic yachts, the sleek grandeur of the Maxis, and the technological sophistication of the modern fleet. Gather by the Portalet Tower to watch the starts unfold in quick succession around midday, then follow the action through the afternoon before sharing in the anticipation of the day's results as the fleet returns to fill the gulf once more at the day's end. From there, the celebrations continue through the streets of Saint-Tropez and at the famous Bar des Voiles. That is the spirit of Les Voiles de Saint-Tropez. Since the first Nioulargue in 1981, this extraordinary regatta week has remained unrivalled on the international sailing calendar.
While the formula remains timeless, each edition brings new highlights and exclusive moments. In 2025, spectators were captivated by the majestic three-masted schooner Atlantic. The record-holder of the 1905 North Atlantic crossing is expected to return in 2026 and, according to SNST President Pierre Roinson, "will share top billing with at least three J Class yachts. Much like last year, these exceptional yachts add prestige to Les Voiles. However, accommodating such large vessels in the harbour where berths for yachts drawing more than five metres are limited will require careful planning," he explains. More than three months before the event, over 250 entries have already been received.
Hospitality and Celebration at the Heart of the Event
Since its relocation to the Jean Réveille quay in 2023, the redesigned Les Voiles Race Village has given the event a new dimension and an exceptional sense of conviviality. Situated between the harbour and the gulf, it provides a vibrant meeting point where competitors, visitors, partners and VIP guests come together throughout the week. This success is made possible by the expertise of the Town of Saint-Tropez's technical teams, the company responsible for building the Village, and the support of the principal partners of Les Voiles de Saint-Tropez.
As part of its commitment to continuous improvement, the Société Nautique de Saint-Tropez has appointed an experienced Artistic Director to bring a fresh perspective to the event's hospitality areas. Planned enhancements include improved signage, a more coherent visual identity and smoother visitor circulation throughout the venue. The 2026 edition promises to be particularly celebratory.
The year will mark the twentieth anniversary of the partnership with Rolex, the centenary of the Comité International de la Méditerranée, and 150 years of maritime commitment by the Edmond de Rothschild family through the legendary Gitana dynasty, one of the most iconic lineages in sailing history. Save the date!
Focus: Société Nautique de Saint-Tropez and the America's Cup
As organizer of Les Voiles de Saint-Tropez, the Société Nautique de Saint-Tropez is also the supporting yacht club of the French La Roche-Posay Sailing Team. "The team can count on the unwavering support of the Société Nautique de Saint-Tropez's 500 members, who are proud to play a key role in this new America's Cup campaign," says President Pierre Roinson. For the second time, the Société Nautique de Saint-Tropez will challenge for the oldest trophy in international sport. The 38th America's Cup will take place in Naples in 2027, where the club will compete alongside prestigious yacht clubs including the Royal Yacht Squadron (United Kingdom), Circlo de Remo de Della Vela Italia (Italy), Société Nautique de Genève (Switzerland), Sail Newport (United States), Royal Prince Edward Yacht Club (Australia) and the defending Royal New Zealand Yacht Squadron.
2026 Voiles de Saint-Tropez Programme
- Saturday, September 26: Registrations
- Sunday, September 27: Registrations.
- Arrival of the Yacht Club de France Autumn Cup (Cannes Saint-Tropez)
- Monday, September 28: Racing for Maxi and Modern yachts
- Tuesday, September 29: Racing for Maxi, Modern and Classic yachts, including the Rolex Trophy
- Wednesday, September 30: Racing for Modern and Classic yachts, including the Rolex Trophy. Day off for Maxis
- Thursday, October 1: Club 55 Cup, Gstaad YC Centenary Trophy (Pursuit race), Challenge day for Modern and Classic yachts, racing for Maxis
- Friday, October 2: Racing for Maxi, Modern and Classic yachts, including the Rolex Trophy
- Saturday, October 3: Racing for Maxi, Modern and Classic yachts, including the Rolex Trophy, Prize-giving for Maxis including the Edmond de Rothschild Trophy and Rolex Trophy Presentation
- Sunday, October 4: Prize giving for Modern and Classic yachts including the BMW Trophy and the Special Trophies