The SB20 Class Association is raising the bar ahead of the 2026 SB20 World Championship in Hyères, France by setting an ambitious goal – 100 boats on the start line! Recent World Championships have drawn fields in the 50s, making this a bold jump, but one the Class believes it is achievable. Hyères is a legendary sailing location among the SB20 sailors that always drew large numbers to contest the SB20 Trophy. In 2013 the COYCH hosted the SB20 Worlds with 90 boats delivering extraordinary racing. With its unique wind conditions, Mediterranean scenery and well-established regatta infrastructure, Hyères remains one of the Class’s favourite locations.
“We know Hyères has everything needed for a record-breaking Worlds,” – said Ed Russo, President of the French SB20 Association. – “In 2013 we had 90 boats and this time we are aiming even higher. One hundred boats would be a fantastic showcase of the SB20’s global strength!”
In 2019 the SB20 Worlds in Hyères gathered 65 boats from 14 countries and was one of the largest one-design sportsboat championships in Europe that year with a solid number of top sailors.
Photos from the SB20 Worlds 2019
Strong early interest building up
The momentum is already building towards the target with more than 40 teams from across the world, who have expressed interest in the 2026 Worlds – more than a year ahead of the event. The early response is encouraging, but the Class is now calling on all SB20 sailors to step forward and commit:
“This is the time to act,” – said Ed Russo. – “By committing early the teams not only secure their places, but also help us deliver the best possible event experience. The earlier we can confirm the numbers, the more we can do for the participants.”
Hotel Plein Sud – all together under one roof
In Ostend, earlier this year, the spirit of the Class shone through when more than 100 sailors gathered for the crew party, singing together over dinner before dancing late into the night – a reminder of the unity that defines the SB20 family.
The central part of the plan for Hyères 2026 is Hotel Plein Sud, located directly on the waterfront. The hotel offers half-pension packages, communal dining facilities and the capacity to host the entire SB20 fleet creating a vibrant hub for sailors for off the water time. Pre-booking of the hotel requires sufficient confirmed entries. The Class is urging teams to commit now so the reservation can be secured.
“Our goal is to bring everyone together under one roof,” – says Russo. “It’s about racing hard on the water and celebrating together afterwards – the SB20 spirit at its best.”
Road to Hyères – events leading to the Worlds 2026
A build-up of events will lead into the championship, including the French Nationals in November 2025, the Hyères Regattas in May and September 2026 and the official warm-up event in October 2026, just before the Worlds. These events will provides the sailors with multiple opportunities to race in Hyères ahead of the main event. You can filter all SB20 events by country on the Events page or use this pre-filtered link for all future events in France.
Photos from the SB20 Worlds 2019
Key entry dates and fees:
Entry fees follow a structured timeline:
Before 15th June 2026 – discounted entry fee (additional discount for youth teams applies until this date)
From 15th June to 1st September 2026 – standard entry fee
After 1st September 2026 – entries possible at the discretion of the Organising Authority, if places remain.
Full details are available in the Notice of Race: Download NOR (PDF)
ENTER EARLY AND SECURE A PLACE!
For many SB20 sailors Hyères has become a second home — a place for training, first wins and unforgettable battles on its sparkling bay. The previous World events have proved how professional the Race Committee of COYCH is ensuring top-quality racing even when the weather tests the fleet.
Looking ahead, the 2026 Worlds promise to be one of those events when everything comes together: fierce competition, amazing sailing conditions and the entire SB20 community gathered in one place. Don’t risk sitting on the sidelines and only hearing the stories afterwards – make sure your team is part of it!
For more information and registrtion visit the official event website:
Photos: Pierrick Contin, Anna Zyk, Hotel Plein Sud, COYCH & online sources