The 44th Copa del Rey MAPFRE has officially been launched at the Real Club Náutico de Palma (RCNP), marking the beginning of one of the world’s most prestigious sailing regattas. The official presentation gathered public authorities, sponsors, yacht owners, sailors and media representatives ahead of a week of top-level racing in the Bay of Palma.
This year’s edition brings together more than 100 yachts from nearly 20 countries, once again confirming the event’s status as one of the Mediterranean’s premier sailing competitions and a highlight of the international racing calendar.
Opening the ceremony, Manu Fraga, Director of the Real Club Náutico de Palma, welcomed participants and highlighted the exceptional quality of this year’s fleet, underlining the regatta’s continued international growth and sporting excellence.
RCNP President Rafael Gil described the Copa del Rey MAPFRE as one of the most important sailing events in the world after more than four decades of history. He praised the arrival of some of the sport’s best crews in Palma and thanked public institutions, sponsors and partners—particularly MAPFRE, whose two decades of support have played a key role in the regatta’s global success.
Gil also emphasized the event’s significant economic, tourism and social impact on Palma and the Balearic Islands, showcasing the region worldwide through the values of sport, teamwork, excellence and respect for the sea.
Representing the title sponsor, Javier Olías, Regional Director of MAPFRE in the Balearic Islands, reaffirmed the company’s long-standing commitment to the event, highlighting the partnership built on trust, stability and shared values.
Javier Bonet, First Deputy Mayor of Palma, described the regatta as an event that places the city at the center of the international sailing world, while Jaime Bauzá, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Sports of the Government of the Balearic Islands, reaffirmed the regional government’s continued support for a competition that has become both a sporting and social institution.
The ceremony concluded with the traditional ribbon-cutting, officially opening the 44th Copa del Rey MAPFRE, followed by a group photograph featuring officials, sponsors and partners before racing begins in the spectacular Bay of Palma.
With another world-class fleet assembled and ideal Mediterranean conditions awaiting, the 2026 Copa del Rey MAPFRE promises another memorable chapter in the history of one of sailing’s most iconic regattas.
