The Gulf of Gaeta hosted the 1st Fra Diavolo Sailing Gin SB20 Trophy from May 22–24, 2026, marking the second stage of the SB20 Italian League this year. Organised by Yacht Club Gaeta EVS on behalf of the FIV, in collaboration with Circolo Nautico Caposele and Base Nautica Flavio Gioia, the event featured 8 highly technical windward/leeward races under the patronage of the Lazio Region.
The Class is experiencing a strong revival in Italy, particularly from its fleet hub in Anzio. Backed by the impetus of Devoti Sailing, this growing competitive activity serves as a foundational buildup toward the 2028 World Championship here. Looks like the SB20’s fast and tactical dynamic encouraged Luca Devoti to step back onboard for his first competitive regatta in 24 years!
“Fabulous winds and a very technical racecourse characterised the Gin Cup in Gaeta,” – Luca Devoti noted. “The event brought together the growing SB20 Italian fleet and the J/24 Nationals, creating a fantastic atmosphere on and off the water.”
The racing was exceptionally tight from the start. Driven by precise steering from Furio Patrizio Monaco and physical work by Paolo Rossi, Devoti’s boat led the fleet after six races. However, only three points separated the top three boats heading into the final day, keeping the pressure high.
A shift in fortune on the last day upended the leaderboard. Mario Aquila and Mario Ruperto of Team Aquila executed a flawless performance, scoring two consecutive bullets to claim overall victory.
The final-day surge highlights the caliber of talent anchoring the Italian circuit’s expansion. Helm Mario Aquila brings a formidable tactical background from the Melges 14 Class, where he secured the 2019 World League Overall Championship and won the 2022 Tuscany Grand Prix aboard his boat Vanitè XXS.
“On the final day, in a surprising shift of fortune, the volatile Gods of the wind decided I had already had too much luck. The table turned,” – Luca Devoti recounted. “Aquila and Ruperto sailed impeccably, scoring two bullets to win the event. Luca Domenici with Notaro Team sailed consistently to secure second place and we finished third… What an incredible event!”
With logistics impeccably managed by Luca Simeone’s team from Yacht Club Gaeta EVS, who also stepped out of the office and onto the racecourse, the regatta underscored the rising profile of the Italian SB20 circuit. The event’s competitive depth was further bolstered by an impressive cross-section of Italian sailing talent, ranging from elite ClubSwan owner Andrea Masi and offshore winner Pierfrancesco Picone, to rising international youth standouts like Federico Passoni and 420 racer Aurora Aquila.
Sunny race galleries from Day 1, Day 2, and Day 3 by Mario Anforo.
