The SB20 Class and Devoti Sailing have agreed a long-term strategic plan through to 2030, confirming future World Championship venues and setting out a shared ambition to strengthen the existing fleets, explore new markets and establish the SB20 as the world’s leading one-design sportsboat class.
With demand for SB20’s continuing to rise across multiple regions, the Class has formally accepted a comprehensive strategic proposal from Devoti Sailing aimed at accelerating its sustainable growth. Following a unanimous vote by the SB20 World Council, the plan secures future World Championships and aligns the Class governance, the builder support and market development under a single long-term vision.
As part of this agreement, in addition to previously agreed 2026 in Hyères, France and the 2027 SB20 Worlds in Torquay, United Kingdom, the following three new SB20 World Championships have been confirmed:
- 2028 in Anzio, Italy
- 2029 in Hobart, Australia
- 2030 in Cascais, Portugal
These are in addition to a commitment to strong continental championships with multiple charter options providing year-round sailing opportunities.
SB20 Italian Class National Championship 2025 © Matteo Garrone
In conjunction with the international SB20 Class Association, Devoti Sailing will focus on developing both established and emerging markets. Key initiatives include supporting the circulation of competitive second-hand boats, introducing charter programmes for new and near-new boats, creating clear upgrade pathways through attractive post-event sale opportunities and supporting a strong dealer network for boats, parts and accessories.
The Class is currently active in more than 12 countries with strong momentum in the UK & Europe, the UAE and Singapore.
Following recent strong World championships in the UAE and Singapore there has been an increase in SB20 activity and early registrations for 2026 events. High-quality SB20 racing is now firmly established in these countries reinforcing the Class’s reputation for competitive, accessible and high-level international competition.
SB20 Class President Scott Glanville commented:
“The World Council’s unanimous support reflects real confidence in both the direction of the Class and Devoti Sailing’s long-term commitment. This plan gives us clarity, stability and ambition – it strengthens our World Championships while opening new pathways for growth in key sailing markets worldwide.”
The SB20’s appeal lies in its unique balance: an affordable, high-performance sportsboat that equally welcomes youth, masters and female sailors, while remaining a platform that professional sailors genuinely enjoy. Older boats remain highly competitive and accessible, with many boats available, providing a low barrier to entry into world-class one-design racing.
Historically, the SB20 World Championship has attracted big fleets and sailors from Olympic and grand-prix keelboat backgrounds. Since the inaugural Worlds in 2008, the event has grown into one of the most respected one-design keelboat championships on the international calendar, known for strong competition and iconic venues.
Each confirmed World Championship venue plays a strategic role in the plan. Anzio 2028 builds on the successful revival of the Italian fleet in 2025, with the potential to grow to 50 boats.
Hobart 2029 will mark the Class’s return to one of sailing’s most iconic locations, supported by a strong local fleet and well-prepared charter programme. Cascais 2030 follows the unforgettable 2016 and 2021 Worlds, with SailCascais, Devoti Sailing and the SB20 Class working together to rebuild and expand the Portuguese fleet ahead of a major return.
Luca Devoti, Founder of Devoti Sailing, added:
“Together with the Class, we have adjusted the World Championship strategy to give the fleet the strongest possible foundation for real, long-term growth. This plan allows us to invest with confidence – in boats, events and markets – and to build something truly sustainable for the future of the SB20.”
With this agreement in place, the SB20 Class enters the next phase of its development with clear direction, strong partnership and a shared ambition to become The premier one-design sportsboat class in the world.