Significant storm suspends offshore race

Thirty-nine boats are competing in the 2026 Palermo-Montecarlo – a 437nm course from the Sicilian city upwards to Monaco. While the fastest that started on August 18 are already enjoying a spritz on the French Riviera, a significant storm has led to a significant decision for the others. Here is the report:

TEMPORARY SUSPENSION OF THE RACE
A painful, inevitable one, imposed by the consistent forecasts of the weather models that indicate with certainty the rapid passage of a low-pressure front between the Strait of Bonifacio, Corsica, and extending along the Ligurian and Corsican Seas to the Principality of Monaco, with winds of up to 60 and even 80 knots.

Race Director Giancarlo Crevatin’s statement reads, among other things, as follows: “Between 5:00 AM and 1:00 PM on August 21, 2026, the race must be considered temporarily suspended (not abandoned or postponed). During this time, all boats must be considered not racing and MUST be in a safe position and condition, adequately sheltered from wind and waves.” – Full report