41st Primo Cup – Trophée UBS & Act IV of Monaco Sportsboat Winter Series - In the starting-blocks
by Yacht Club de Monaco 7 Mar 08:02 GMT
6-9 March 2025
Primo Cup – Trophée UBS © Gian Mattia D'Alberto La Presse
The Primo Cup-Trophée UBS is ready to write a new chapter in its history. This major one design regatta has been constantly evolving since its launch in 1985 at the instigation of YCM President HSH Prince Albert II of Monaco.
With 90 teams across five classes, the 41st edition looks set to be another exciting contest in the bay of Monaco, with three days of promising conditions demanding as always technique, precision and expertise to master this race venue.
Sporting heritage rooted in the principality
In the wake of a nautical tradition dating back to the end of the 19th century, the Primo Cup-Trophée UBS is part of a constant striving for excellence and innovation that defines Monaco. Every year, the event unveils another class or introduces an innovative piece of kit or methodology which go on to be adopted by other international circuits. In the mild optimal conditions in Monaco, classes have an opportunity to gauge the competition before the main season really gets under way. This year J/70, Smeralda 888, ClubSwan28, Longtze Premier and Cape 31 are set to do battle and put on a show.
An unusual always testing race area at the foot of the Rocher
Exceptional conditions and a technically demanding race area has earned the respect of pros and amateurs from all over the world. Currents and the unique geographical relief of the coastline creates an environment that tests the boats as much as it does the strategy of any crew. Once again, the cream of sailing has descended on the YCM Marina. Among them are Branko Brcin, a well-known figure in the Melges class, Saskia Clark, gold and silver medalist at the Rio and London Olympics, and double Olympic medallist Tonci Stipanovic in ILCA 7.
First a warm-up race
The event kicked-off on Thursday with a warm-up race for teams to get into their stride before the main event starts on Friday. With a steady 7/8 knot north-easterly blowing, the appetiser delighted the five classes, with the 41st edition proving once again the range of technological approaches that emerge in one-design. This year, the event is serving as a trial for the new ClubSwan 28 making its début on the international circuit.
Tension rises for Act IV of the Monaco Sportsboat Winter Series
As every year, the Primo Cup-Trophée UBS is also the fourth and final stage of the Monaco Sportsboat Winter Series for the J/70s, the 2024/2025 season having been dominated up to now by Stefano Roberti (Piccinina) from YCM. Launched by YCM in 2013, these winter regattas have become a benchmark for international teams to keep their (racing) hands in with around 40 teams competing over the season.
It all starts tomorrow for the Primo Cup-Trophée UBS with the first race scheduled for 12 noon.
Provisional programme (subject to weather conditions)
Friday 7th March - 12:00: First warning signal for all classes
Saturday 8th March - 11:00: First warning signal for all classes
Sunday 9th March:
11:00: First warning signal for all classes
15:00: Final possible warning signal
After the races: prize-giving ceremony
For results, official website