Light Winds Challenge Racing in Cattolica, While the Waszp Fleet Delivers a Spectacular Show

The Marina Militare Nastro Rosa Tour 2026 officially came alive in Cattolica as the spotlight shifted from the offshore fleet of Bénéteau Figaro 3 yachts to the highly anticipated Inshore races. Fans gathered to watch some of sailing’s most exciting disciplines, with Waszp sailors and WingFoil riders ready to put on a show. However, unstable weather conditions became the main storyline of the day, testing both competitors and race officials.

Waszp Racing Gets Underway

The day began with the traditional pre-race briefing, where weather and sea conditions were carefully reviewed. By 11:30 a.m., the entire fleet was on the water, ready for competition.

The Waszp fleet was first to get racing, crossing the starting line at 12:20 p.m. At that moment, winds ranged between 8 and 8.5 knots, just enough to allow the foiling dinghies to take flight. Conditions briefly improved before the breeze began to fade, creating increasingly challenging racing conditions.

WingFoil Competition Postponed

While the Waszp sailors managed to take advantage of the short-lived wind window, the WingFoil fleet was not as fortunate. As the breeze dropped to almost nothing, launching and foiling became impossible, forcing race officials to postpone the discipline’s scheduled races.

Despite the deteriorating conditions, the Waszp fleet successfully completed a second race, requiring significant tactical skill and patience. Around 2:00 p.m., the race committee remained on standby for approximately thirty minutes, hoping for a return of suitable wind conditions. Unfortunately, the weather did not cooperate, and at 2:30 p.m. racing operations were officially concluded for the day.

Carrieri Takes the Lead

Although the schedule was shortened, the two completed Waszp races produced a clear leader at the top of the provisional standings.

Italy’s Francesco Carrieri, representing Circolo Nautico Sambenedettese, delivered the strongest performance of the day, expertly handling the light and unpredictable conditions. Finishing second was Alex Jones of Flushing Sailing Club, while Ash Cole secured third place for the Guardia di Finanza team.

Once again, the Marina Militare Nastro Rosa Tour showcased the excitement of foiling sailing, where speed, technique and tactical awareness become even more crucial when the wind is scarce. Attention now turns to the upcoming racing days, with sailors and spectators alike hoping for stronger and more consistent breeze conditions.