Monaco Optimist Team Race 2026: Junior Sailing Excellence in Monaco

Every January, the Principality of Monaco becomes the stage for an unmissable international sailing event : the Monaco Optimist Team Race. In 2026, this exciting regatta organised by the Yacht Club de Monaco (YCM) will take place from 14 to 18 January 2026, bringing together young talents from around the world to compete in a sporting, strategic and spectacular race set in the heart of Monaco Bay.

What is the Monaco Optimist Team Race?

The Monaco Optimist Team Race is an international sailing regatta dedicated to young sailors under the age of 14, competing in national teams of four sailors. This unique competition is sailed in Optimist dinghies, small boats specifically designed for junior training and competitive sailing.

What makes it stand out:

• a team racing format inspired by the America’s Cup, where speed combines with tactics and strong team coordination;

• round-robin stages where each team competes against all others, followed by quarter-finals, semi-finals and the grand final;

• a sporting and friendly atmosphere, allowing families and fans to follow the competition from the quays or along the waterfront.

  
  

Recognised as a global reference in Junior Team Racing, this event gives young sailors invaluable international experience while allowing them to put their technical skills and team spirit into practice.

When and where does the event take place?

• Dates: from 14 to 18 January 2026.

• Location: Monaco Bay, under the iconic setting of the Yacht Club de Monaco.

  
  

The competition takes place very close to the shoreline, offering spectators outstanding views from the quays of Port Hercule or along the waterfront promenade — a truly unique nautical and visual experience for all visitors in Monaco during these dates.

Why you shouldn’t miss the 2026 edition

The Monaco Optimist Team Race is not just a sporting event: it is a celebration of junior sailing, a moment of cultural exchange, and a showcase for the talents of tomorrow.

Each team represents a nation, with several international teams competing in closely fought races.

This event is perfectly accessible to everyone :

• sports enthusiasts,

• families looking for inspiring activities,

• visitors wishing to discover Monaco from a sporty and dynamic perspective.

  
  

For sailing enthusiasts, it also marks a great opening of Monaco’s nautical season, ahead of other international events such as the Monaco Sportsboat Winter Series in February.

Practical information

To follow the competition or obtain information about the teams, rankings and race schedules :

👉 Yacht Club de Monaco – Monaco Optimist Team Race:https://yacht-club-monaco.mc/en/event/sport-event/monaco-optimist-team-race/en/

Stay tip : make the most of the event from Hôtel de France

If you are planning to visit Monaco during the Monaco Optimist Team Race 2026, Hôtel de France is an ideal base to explore the Principality on foot, enjoy the regattas and discover other sporting and cultural events of the winter season. During this period, we will suspend our renovation works to ensure our guests enjoy a comfortable and peaceful stay, with no disturbance from ongoing works.