A new chapter for the SB20 Class in Italy begins today as the country’s largest-ever SB20 National Championship gets underway in Nettuno, near Rome. 18 boats are confirmed on the start line – an unprecedented milestone that sailors across Italy are calling the true “SB20 Rinascita,” or rebirth, powered by fresh enthusiasm and the leadership of Devoti Sailing.
The revival has been building steadily throughout the year. What started with Open Day weekends in Anzio last spring, supported by the Italian SB20 Class and media partner Saily.it, has grown into a full-scale relaunch of the fleet. Now, with the championship officially opening, the excitement is stronger than ever.
Devoti Sailing at the heart of the Revival
At the centre of this momentum is Luca Devoti – Olympic Finn silver medallist and founder of Devoti Sailing. His commitment to bringing the SB20 back to Italy has gained new attention, new energy and new sailors in the class.
While working on his next-generation foiling projects, Devoti has also invested heavily in the SB20, now built by his shipyard. The boat’s reputation as a strict one-design keelboat, fast, responsive, accessible for newcomers yet rewarding for top-level sailors makes it a natural fit for Italy’s competitive and passionate sailing community.
A star-studded and diverse fleet
This weekend’s championship, hosted by Yacht Club Nettuno, showcases a vibrant mix of talent. On the starting line are world-class names such as Diego Negri, Enrico Passoni, Luca Domenici, Mario Aquila, Marco Buglielli, Massimo Morasca, Roberto Rinaldi and Alessandro Lama, alongside enthusiastic amateurs and new teams testing the SB20 for the first time.
And, of course, Luca Devoti himself bringing his trademark energy to the fleet. This blend of elite sailors and passionate newcomers is exactly what the Rinascita project set out to create – a competitive but welcoming community ready for growth.
Setting the course for the future
Beyond racing this championship marks an important milestone for the Italian SB20 Class. Over the weekend, the Class assembly will meet to renew leadership roles and map out the next phase of development. A refreshed national circuit is planned for 2026, with events scheduled at some of Italy’s best sailing venues. Efforts are also underway to welcome even more new crews into the fleet, supported by Devoti Sailing’s accessible charter and purchase programmes that lower the barriers to joining the Class.
The Italian fleet is also gearing up for a strong appearance at the 2026 SB20 World Championship in Hyères, an event seen as a crucial stepping stone toward a long-term ambition: bringing the SB20 Worlds to Italy in 2028 – a goal that many now view as both realistic and within reach.
A big weekend ahead
With racing now kicking off and perfect conditions expected in the Gulf of Anzio, the SB20 Italian Nationals promise fast action, close competition and a showcase of the Class’ renewed strength.
Daily updates, photos and video coverage from Nettuno will be available through Saily.it, with images to be added to this article throughout the event.
The SB20 Rinascita has officially begun—and Italy is ready!
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Official Notice Board: Nettuno Yacht Club‘s website
Text Source: Saily.it