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80 Entries and Counting as Fireball World Championship Momentum Builds in Torquay

by UK Fireball Association 5 Jun 07:42 BST 20-31 July 2026
Fireball racing in Tor Bay © Tania Hutchings / www.50northphotography.co.uk

The UK Fireball Association is delighted to announce that 80 entries have already been secured for the 2026 Fireball World Championship, set to take place at the Royal Torbay Yacht Club from 22nd July 2026.

With just 47 days to go, excitement is rapidly building for what promises to be one of the most memorable Fireball events in recent history.

Hosted on the stunning waters of Torbay, the regatta will bring together crews from across the globe to compete in one of sailing's most enduring and competitive two-person dinghy classes. The Fireball, first designed in 1962, continues to thrive internationally, combining high performance, accessibility, and a strong sense of community.

The 2026 event is set to be a true celebration of the class, combining the Fireball World Championship with the UK National Championship, creating a packed on-the-water schedule and a festival atmosphere ashore. The combined format reflects the strength of the UK fleet and the growing international interest in this "home worlds" year.

A Championship On and Off the Water

While the racing will be fiercely contested, the social programme promises to be equally compelling. A full calendar of evening events will run throughout the championship, bringing together sailors past and present in true Fireball style.

At the heart of this will be a special "Fireball Legends Night", celebrating the rich heritage of the class. The evening will feature interviews, stories, and images spanning the decades since the Fireball's original design, offering a unique opportunity to relive the moments, personalities, and innovations that have shaped the class worldwide.

This blend of elite racing and vibrant social activity reflects what makes Fireball sailing unique—competitive on the water, but deeply connected and welcoming ashore.

A World-Class Venue

The Royal Torbay Yacht Club provides an outstanding setting for the championship, with Torbay widely recognised as one of the UK's premier sailing venues. The bay has a long history of hosting major international regattas and offers reliable racing conditions alongside a spectacular coastline backdrop.

Entries Still Open

With momentum building and entries continuing to rise beyond the current 80 boats, organisers expect a strong international fleet by the time the regatta begins.

Competitors are encouraged to secure their place and be part of what promises to be a landmark event for the Fireball class.

Entry can be made via the event site, 2026.fireballworlds.com.

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