Poole Regatta 2026 - Less than 12 months until the European IRC Championship comes to town
by Chris Jones 16 Jul 00:07 NZST
23-25 May 2026
Jump n Shout - 2024 International Paint Poole Regatta © Ian Roman /
www.ianroman.com
With less than a year to go, excitement is steadily building for the return of the International Paint Poole Regatta, taking place from 23rd-25th May 2026 over the late May bank holiday weekend.
Already a highlight on the UK sailing calendar, Poole Regatta 2026 is set to make history as it also hosts the prestigious European IRC Championship, attracting top racing yachts and crews from across Europe. On course to be the biggest weekend of sailing in Poole to date, European IRC Championship racing will begin on the 22nd May and span the whole weekend.
Held in the stunning surroundings of Poole Bay & Harbour, the popular regatta offers a unique blend of competitive racing, buzzing atmosphere and friendly camaraderie, delivered by a collaboration of local yacht clubs and supported once again by title sponsor International Paint.
"Bringing the European IRC Championship to Poole is a huge milestone for the regatta and a major endorsement of the quality of racing and the event we host," said Andrew Pearce, President of the International Paint Poole Regatta. "We're incredibly proud to welcome sailors in 2026 from across Europe to compete and to experience everything the Poole sailing community has to offer."
Racing will take place in Poole Bay and surrounding waters, with classes to include IRC, one-design keelboats, cruiser-racers, and dayboats. Off the water, a full social events programme is being planned by the combined yacht clubs around the harbour, offering a warm welcome and plenty of entertainment for crews and supporters alike.
Don't forget to put the dates in your diary and follow @PooleRegatta on social media. Visit pooleregatta.co.uk to express your interest in competing, stay up to date with announcements, including publication of the Notice of Race and entries opening. If you wish to find out more about organizing a class start at Poole Regatta 2026 email
This regatta couldn't take place without our sponsors International Paint, Haven Knox-Johnston, Charles Stanley, Poole Harbour Commissioners, Stoneways Marine, Salcombe Distilling Co., Rooster and The Knot Agency.