ISO Eurocup 2026 - Lake Como delivers the magic

ISO Eurocup 2026 © fotorenatotebaldi

For over 30 years, the ISO fleet has regularly headed to the stunning lakes of Northern Italy for the annual Eurocup.

While we've enjoyed many fantastic events over the years, visits to Lake Como have been surprisingly rare. That made this year's gathering at Marvèlia Centro Formazione Vela in Dongo all the more special, as British and Italian sailors came together for four unforgettable days of racing, friendship and fun.

Of course, many of the travelling Brits couldn't resist extending the trip. Arriving a few days early, they enjoyed some warm-up sailing, soaked up the sunshine and took the opportunity to explore one of Italy's most beautiful regions before the serious business of racing began.

When the Italian fleet arrived on 23rd August, the event was officially under way. Lake Como certainly didn't disappoint. The first three days delivered spectacular sailing conditions, with Day 1 providing a very manageable 14 knots, while Day 2 turned the excitement up several notches with a steady 24 knots across the race area. The stronger breeze built some surprisingly impressive waves for an inland lake, creating challenging conditions and providing plenty of opportunities for exhilarating downwind rides, dramatic moments and the occasional swimming lesson.

ISO Eurocup 2026 - photo © fotorenatotebaldi

Day 3 continued the run of great racing before nature finally called time on proceedings. Thunderstorms rolled across the lake on the final day, bringing an end to any hopes of further racing. With nine races completed, however, nobody felt short-changed. The fleet had enjoyed a fantastic championship and plenty of memorable moments both on and off the water.

A huge thank you must go to VIF and the team at Marvèlia Vela, who delivered an event that was both professionally run and wonderfully welcoming. Everything operated smoothly from start to finish, yet the atmosphere remained relaxed, friendly and distinctly Italian. The ISO class is extremely grateful for their hospitality and hopes to return again in the future.

One of the most encouraging aspects of the event was the number of new sailors and crews joining both the British and Italian fleets. With organised meals on most evenings, competitors had plenty of opportunities to share stories, compare bruises, swap tuning tips and, most importantly, make new friends. Old faces and first-timers mixed effortlessly, demonstrating what makes the ISO class such a special community.

The social highlight came on the final evening when sailors, race officials and club members gathered together at the sailing centre for a celebratory meal. It was the perfect way to round off a fantastic week.

ISO Eurocup 2026 - photo © fotorenatotebaldi

New crew member Harry Mitchell summed up the spirit of the event perfectly:
"It is racing and everyone takes it seriously, but at the same time there is so much fun ashore and everyone is so friendly. The ISO class definitely has a different vibe."

And that really is what it's all about. Yes, there's competitive racing. Yes, everyone wants a good result. But alongside that is a welcoming fleet that enjoys travelling together, sharing adventures and helping new sailors become part of the class.

If you've ever wondered what ISO sailing is all about, don't be shy. There are plenty of British and Italian sailors happy to take newcomers out for a sail and show them the ropes. Find the class on social media, get in touch and come along to an event.

After four days of sunshine, breeze, spectacular scenery, great racing and even better company, one thing is certain:

If you missed Lake Como 2026, make sure you're there for the next one. You won't regret it.

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