The Anticipated Finale of the 44Cup: A New Chapter for Fuerteventura
Introduction to the 44Cup Marina Jandía
The much-anticipated finale of the 2025 season of the prestigious RC44 class is underway! Officially kicking off on Wednesday, November 19, with training races, the 44Cup Marina Jandía marks a significant moment for Fuerteventura as it hosts the final leg of this global racing circuit for the first time.
A New Locale for World-Class Sailing
Following its debut in Scheveningen, Netherlands, this year’s RC44 fleet has arrived at a fresh locale: Marina Jandía, located at the southern tip of Fuerteventura. Developed by Calero Marinas, this modern marina is set to welcome the event in partnership with Puertos Canarios, the Government of the Canary Islands, the Cabildo de Fuerteventura, Turismo Fuerteventura, and the Municipality of Pájara, specifically its sports department. As the latest addition to the archipelago’s nautical hubs, it’s an exciting new chapter.
Marina Jandía: Ready for Competition
While the surroundings of the port are still undergoing urban development, Marina Jandía is fully operational and ready to host major international competitions. The ten RC44 vessels taking part this year will use only a fraction of the marina’s capacity, which boasts over 300 berths accommodating boats ranging from 6 to 50 meters.
A High-Level Season Finale in a New Setting
“We are thrilled to include Fuerteventura in our portfolio; it’s a significant step for Calero Marinas,” says Daniel Calero, head of the real estate division and captain of the Lanzarote Calero Sailing Team. Known for its stunning beaches and consistent trade winds, the island has been a global reference for wind sports, having hosted the Fuerteventura World Cup for 37 years.
The racing field for the 44Cup is ideally situated off Morro Jable and the Jandía Natural Reserve, a breathtaking environment where prevailing winds and ocean swells promise to showcase extraordinary sailing. The chief race official, María Torrijo, has the flexibility to adjust the race field eastward to seek better wind conditions or different atmospheric variables.
A New Challenge Awaits
Despite the Calero team’s extensive competitive experience in Lanzarote, racing in Fuerteventura presents a new set of challenges. “I’m not sure we can consider ourselves ‘locals’ here in Fuerteventura. We will be discovering the area just as everyone else will. It may be similar to competing in the Virgin Islands,” Calero remarked, highlighting the distinct characteristics of this new venue.
Exciting Additions to the Teams
This season’s finale also brings fresh talent to the teams. The Lanzarote Calero Sailing Team has welcomed the newly crowned world champion of J/80, Alberto Padrón from Gran Canaria, as their trimmer, adding a competitive edge to their lineup.
On a lighter note, Daniel Calero continues to be astounded by the media buzz surrounding his accidental fall into the water during the Scheveningen event, with a video capturing the moment garnering over one million views. “I’m still amazed! I’ve received calls from all over the world. Next time, I’ll hold onto Alfredo [González] to avoid flying overboard,” he joked.
The Competition: Ten Teams, One Title
The 44Cup Marina Jandía features 10 international teams eager to compete.
- Today, November 19, marks the start of the training races.
- The official competition will take place from November 20 to 23, culminating in the crowning of both the event winner and the overall champion of the 44Cup 2025.
With steady winds, an unprecedented setting, and the elite of global sailing having settled in Fuerteventura, the island is gearing up for a historic week in international sports sailing.
The excitement is palpable as sailors prepare to navigate the waters of Marina Jandía, bringing this thrilling season to a dramatic close. Each race promises to deliver not just a battle for points, but a spectacle of skill, strategy, and maritime passion against a stunning backdrop.
