Genoa, October 30, 2025 — The first qualifying day of the Marina Militare Nastro Rosa Il Veloce 2025 officially got underway today, marking the start of an event that already stands out for its remarkable success in terms of participation.
A total of 32 teams have answered the call of the longest and most daring regatta in the Mediterranean, prompting the Organizing Committee to revise the race schedule to select the 22 teams currently competing in the qualification rounds.
The goal: to secure one of the 10 coveted spots for the official start of the Marina Militare Nastro Rosa Veloce — an offshore challenge from Genoa to Venice aboard high-performance Beneteau Figaro 3 yachts, each crewed by just two sailors.
This non-stop race is an extreme test of endurance and strategy over a 1,492-mile course along the Mediterranean coastline.
The qualification system, jointly developed by Riccardo Simoneschi (Marina Militare Nastro Rosa Tour) and Jim Diver(RORC), introduces a completely new format to the offshore sailing scene.
Based on feedback from recent world championships, it gives each team two qualifying trials — one by day and one by night — to ensure balanced and comprehensive racing conditions.
The boats, divided into two randomly drawn groups, will take turns competing:
- Group A raced in today’s daytime session;
- Group B will set sail tonight at 11 p.m. for the spectacular night race.
Tomorrow the roles will be reversed, with Group A racing at night and Group B competing during the day.
Before the final ranking, the teams placed from third to seventh will have a repechage race offering a last opportunity for the remaining two spots.
Drama on the First Day
The opening day brought immediate drama on the water.
Cupaioli and D’Ali, hometown favorites from Genoa and representatives of the Yacht Club Italiano, were involved in a collision at the start with another boat, forcing them to retire early from the race.
The two sailors will, however, have further opportunities in the upcoming trials to recover and fight for qualification.
A Lively Village, a Unique Regatta
Thanks to this dynamic race format, the Nastro Rosa Il Veloce Village remains active and competitive until the very last day, leading up to the grand start from Genoa, scheduled for the fifth day of the event.
Adding prestige to the start of the qualifiers was the presence of the Italian Navy training ship Palinuro, paying tribute to the event and symbolizing the deep connection between Italy’s maritime tradition and modern sporting excellence.
The Marina Militare Nastro Rosa Il Veloce 2025 is strongly supported by the Liguria Region and the City of Genoa, reaffirming the city’s role as a key hub for offshore sailing in the Mediterranean.
Following the official start, the teams will embark on 1,492 miles of non-stop sailing, facing long nights, cold conditions, and challenging seas to reach Venice and compete for victory — and the €50,000 prize.