2025 ILCA U21 Europeans Set to Break Participation Record in Split

2024 ILCA U21 Worlds © ProwMedia

The upcoming 2025 ILCA Under-21 European Championships & Open European Trophy is set to make history as the largest edition to date, with a record-breaking number of participants confirmed for the event, which will take place at JK Mornar in Split, Croatia, from October 18-25, 2025.

With 160 ILCA 7 and 82 ILCA 6 sailors officially entered, the 2025 event will welcome a total of 242 competitors, surpassing the previous record of 230 participants set at the 2023 championships in Stavanger, Norway. This increase in participation underscores the growing popularity of the ILCA (former International Laser Class Association) and the event's prominence as a key competition for up-and-coming sailing talent.

This increase in participation underscores the growing popularity of the ILCA and the event's prominence as a key competition for up-and-coming sailing talent.

Titles at Stake

The regatta will feature multiple prestigious titles for European and non-European sailors across both men's and women's categories, including:

• 2025 ILCA 6 Women Under-21 European Championship*
• 2025 ILCA 6 Women Under-21 Open European Trophy**
• 2025 ILCA 7 Men Under-21 European Championship*
• 2025 ILCA 7 Men Under-19 European Championship*
• 2025 ILCA 7 Men Under-21 Open European Trophy**
• 2025 ILCA 7 Men Under-19 Open European Trophy**

*Exclusively for European sailors
**Open to both European and non-European sailors, with trophies awarded to the top three overall competitors, regardless of their nationality

This year's competition promises to be a highly competitive and exciting event as sailors from across Europe and beyond converge on the stunning coastline of Split to battle for the prestigious European titles.

Top Sailors to Watch

The 2025 ILCA Under-21 European Championships & Open European Trophy is set to feature a stellar lineup of sailors, with many of them already making waves in the senior circuits. In the ILCA 7 Men category, look out for reigning 2025 World Champion from Ireland, Ole Schweckendiek of Germany, as well as Athanasios Kyfidis of Greece, the 2025 World Championships Bronze Medalist. Other top contenders include Mattia Cesana of Italy, the 2024 Bronze Medalist, and a long list of experienced athletes with previous World and European Championship titles and medals in Youth events.

In the ILCA 6 Women, Emma Mattivi of Italy, who claimed Bronze at the 2025 Under-21 Worlds in Ireland, is a name to follow closely. A strong group of sailors with proven track records also includes Petra Marendic CRO, Hermione Ghicas GRE, Maria Vittoria Arseni ITA, Katrina Micallef MLT, Feline Van Ede NED, Hieke Schraffordt NED, Alina Shapovalova UKR, and many more. These athletes, along with several other standout sailors, are sure to provide fierce competition as they race for the top spots.

Organizers and Event Location

The JK Mornar Sailing Club, located in Split, Croatia, is renowned for its world-class facilities and breathtaking setting along the Adriatic Sea. The club will provide a prime venue for what is expected to be a thrilling week of competition, with top-tier sailors vying for continental glory.

The event is being organized by EurILCA, in collaboration with the JK Mornar, ensuring a well-run and exciting experience for both participants and spectators alike.

Looking Ahead

With record participation and a packed schedule of races, the 2025 ILCA Under-21 European Championships & Open European Trophy will no doubt be one of the most exciting regattas of the year. Sailors from various nations will have the opportunity to showcase their skills and compete for the highest honors in the ILCA class, making the event a highlight in the sailing calendar.