For the first time in its history, the Monaco Yacht Club will compete in the legendary Admiral’s Cup, marking a major milestone for the Principality’s sailing ambitions. The prestigious offshore racing event, first held in 1957, is making its long-awaited return this summer, running from July 17 to August 1 in Cowes, on the Isle of Wight.

Revived after a 22-year hiatus, the Admiral’s Cup will once again bring together some of the world’s most elite sailing teams for a demanding mix of inshore regattas, tactical coastal races, and offshore endurance tests—including the iconic Rolex Fastnet Race. Monaco’s participation is spearheaded by Peter Harrison, a Monaco Yacht Club member and owner of the Jolt racing boats, with the backing of Pierre Casiraghi, the Yacht Club’s vice-president and founder of Team Malizia.

“The Yacht Club de Monaco is a major player in world sailing. Participating in the Admiral’s Cup is a unique opportunity to showcase our expertise and passion,” said Harrison, emphasising the club’s commitment to high-level competition.

The Monegasque entry will feature two formidable yachts: the TP52 Jolt 3, skippered by Peter Harrison in the IRC Big Boat category, and the Carkeek 40 Jolt 6, helmed by Pierre Casiraghi. Their campaign is bolstered by an all-star crew, including Boris Herrmann, who secured a 12th-place finish in the last Vendée Globe, and Will Harris, a key member of Team Malizia. They will be joined by Cole Brauer, the first American woman to complete a solo, non-stop circumnavigation in 130 days and the runner-up in the 2024 Global Solo Challenge.

The 2025 Admiral’s Cup will see more than 15 teams from some of the world’s most storied sailing clubs, including the Yacht Club Costa Smeralda, the Royal New Zealand Yacht Squadron, and the New York Yacht Club, a three-time winner of the competition. The defending champions, Cruising Yacht Club of Australia, will return to defend the title they last claimed in 2003.

As Monaco embarks on this historic challenge, all eyes will be on the YCM’s debut in one of sailing’s most prestigious and gruelling events—a true test of skill, endurance, and strategic brilliance on the open seas.

Image courtesy of Renaud Corlouer/Richard Mille: Peter Harrison and Pierre Casiraghi