The 2026 Junior European Championships for the 49er, 49erFX and Nacra 17 classes were stopped before they could start as Storm Charles moved onto mainland Portugal, keeping all 49 boats ashore at Vilamoura Sailing on the scheduled opening day of racing. Government restrictions triggered by the storm meant no sailing was permitted on 11 November 2026.
Three races had been set for a 12:00 start, but the Portuguese government declared a state of alert across mainland Portugal for the entire day. Faro is the only district placed under IPMA’s red warning, the highest level, for both wind and rain. Forecasters predicted gusts of up to 120 km/h inland and as much as 140 km/h along the coast. The sea state warning for the Algarve coast was raised to orange from midday until 21:00, and IPMA expects the unsettled weather to persist until at least Friday.
The fleet of 98 sailors and 26 coaches from 17 countries had been fully prepared to compete. On the day before, teams completed registration and equipment measurement and sailed the practice race. Sailors and coaches then attended the competitors’ briefing covering racing procedures, safety and the schedule. The day concluded with the official opening ceremony and an informal gathering that brought sailors, coaches and organizers together ahead of racing.
The 49er fleet features 33 teams, with Italy bringing the most boats at eight, followed by Germany with six and Switzerland with five. The 49erFX fleet comprises 14 teams from 12 nations, including crews from Japan, Puerto Rico and host nation Portugal. Other countries represented include Austria, Canada, Finland, France, Great Britain, Hungary, Ireland, Israel, Poland and Slovenia.
Nuno Reis, CEO of Prow Group and Vilamoura Sailing, spoke about the significance of the event. “Welcoming junior sailors from 17 countries reflects our commitment to developing the next generation of sailors. Beyond competition, these championships offer young athletes an opportunity to gain international experience and build connections within the sailing community,” he said.
Ben Remocker, Class Director of the International 49er Class Association, echoed that enthusiasm. “Juniors are the future of our sport, and this championship gives them the opportunity to race against their peers. We look forward to seeing their emerging talent and blossoming friendships throughout what promises to be a great championship,” he said.
The program now shifts to Thursday, with three races scheduled for each of the remaining days. Briefing and start times will be confirmed by the race committee depending on conditions.
The championship adds to Vilamoura Sailing’s calendar of international regattas and reinforces its standing as a premier venue for junior and Olympic class sailing events. Located in the heart of the Algarve, the facility is recognised as the world’s largest dinghy sailing centre, known for elite-level competition and world-class facilities.
