Fireball World Championship Set Sail in Torbay with Colourful Junior Sailor Welcome

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Fireball World Championship Set Sail in Torbay with Colourful Junior Sailor Welcome

by Ian Mills 25 Jul 20:12 BST 25-31 July 2026

The Fireball World Championships got off to a spectacular start in Torquay as fourteen junior sailors from the Royal Torbay Yacht Club proudly carried the national flags of the competing nations during the opening ceremony.

The young sailors gave a warm Devon welcome to competitors from across the globe, marking the beginning of a week of world-class racing on the waters of Torbay.

A total of 85 teams from countries around the world have gathered in Torquay to compete for the coveted Fireball World Championship title. Renowned for their speed and excitement, the 16-foot Fireball dinghies are raced by two-person crews and promise thrilling competition throughout the week.

Hosted by the Royal Torbay Yacht Club, the championship will see the striking fleet launched each day from Torquay Harbour before racing on the open waters of the bay, providing a spectacular sight for residents and visitors alike.

Spectators can enjoy the colourful launches from the harbour each morning and watch the action unfold across Torbay as some of the world’s best sailors battle for championship honours.

For race information, schedules and event updates, visit 2026.fireballworlds.com

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