Switch Class Announces 2026 Global Championship in Genoa, Italy

The International Switch Class is pleased to announce that the 2026 Global Championship will take place at Waterfront Sailing Club, Genoa, Italy, from 27 October to 1 November 2026, with racing scheduled from 29 October to 1 November.

Building on the success of the 2025 Global Championship at Fraglia Vela Malcesine, Lake Garda, which saw a fleet of around 60 boats and sailors from across the globe, the 2026 edition is set to continue the strong growth and international momentum of the class.  

Last year’s championship delivered close, high-performance racing across a wide range of conditions, with Italy’s Mattia Cesana crowned Global Champion, while Antonia Schultheis (MLT) led the women’s fleet. In other categories, Drew Barnes (GBR) won the 8.5 Corinthian; Ulrich Volz (AUT); Francesco Bertone (ITA) the 8.5 Masters; Hannes Werle (GER) the U19 Men; Magnus Overbeck (DEN) the U23 Men; Elysia O’Leary (IRL) the U23 Women; and Jordi Xammer (ESP) the lightweight men. As the Class continues to evolve, attention will now turn to the defending champions — will they be back to defend their titles? Only time will tell.

The venue will be open ahead of the event to allow for training and preparation, with further details to be confirmed in due course. A stunning feature of the venue and sailing centre is the ability for sailors to leave their boats rigged up inside the hanger – a huge plus.

Sailors are encouraged to lock these dates into their calendars as planning for the event is now well underway. Genoa offers an ideal setting for high-performance foiling racing, with a proven sailing venue, strong local infrastructure, and reliable conditions suited to a wide range of formats.The event is expected to attract a competitive international fleet as the class continues to expand globally.

Charter Opportunities

To support international participation, the class is planning to make a numebr charter boats available for Switch sailors travelling from outside Europe. This will allow competitors to take part without the need to transport full equipment, reinforcing the Switch Class’s travel-light and accessible approach to international competition.

Sailors interested in charter options are encouraged to get in touch early to secure availability. Please contact info@theswitchclass.com

A Global Championship

The event will be designated as a Global Championship, reflecting the current status of the class as it progresses through the process of becoming a World Sailing recognised class, with an application already underway.

More information, including event details and registration, will be released in the coming months.