From U.S. Nationals to North Americans: Miami, here come the Melges 24s
by International Melges 24 Class Association 6 Dec 08:18 PST
January 23-25, 2026
Melges 24 fleet at the Bacardi Cup Invitational Regatta 2025 - Miami, FL, USA © Marina Semenova
The 2025 Melges 24 U.S. National Championship in Pensacola, FL, delivered an exceptionally robust fleet, showcasing top-level talent in both the Open and Corinthian divisions.
The racing was thrilling, the competition intense, and the memories made on and off the water were unforgettable. It's exactly what owners and sailors have come to expect from this incredible sportboat class.
Next up for the fleet is another major test, the 2025 Melges 24 North American Championship (NAC), set to unfold on Biscayne Bay on January 23-25, 2026, as the opening act of the Bacardi Winter Series 2026. Held in conjunction with the first of three popular high-performance regattas, the NAC stands as one of the International Melges 24 Class Association's (IM24CA) most prestigious titles, one of only three on its global stage. It offers sailors the chance to measure themselves against the best, chase championship glory, and compete at the highest level. With the 2026 World Championship in Harbor Springs on the horizon in mid-September, the North Americans will provide the ideal blend of preparation and opportunity — the penultimate step toward total Melges 24 magic.
"Bacardi is delighted to welcome the Melges 24 Class back to Miami, a fleet that consistently brings world-class talent and a spirit of camaraderie that reflects everything we value in the sport of sailing," said Eddie Cutillas, Bacardi USA. "The Melges 24 remains one of the most exciting and beloved classes at our regattas, and we are proud to continue this tradition by providing an impeccable racing venue paired with the warm hospitality Bacardi is known for."
Another round of major congratulations goes out to Cuyler Morris's Dark Horse, the brand-new 2025 U.S. National Champion, and to John Shockey on Wombmates Racing, who captured the Corinthian National Championship Trophy. Winning in a fleet as competitive and challenging as the Melges 24 is no small feat, and both victories are a testament to their skill, determination, and perseverance.
Familiar faces are already signed up to compete. Reigning World Champion Peter David Karrie on Nefeli, who has enjoyed a spectacular sailing season-including wins at the 2025 Bacardi Winter Series and the World Championship in Trieste-will be there. Former World and North American Champion (2002) Harry Melges III aboard Zenda Express; Trieste Worlds runner-up Laura Grondin racing Dark Energy; Sandy Askew on Flying Jenny; Peter McClennen's Gamecock; and U.S. Nationals runner-up Bora Gulari sailing Mavi will all be in attendance. With this caliber of competition, sailors can expect the same intense, high-energy racing seen in Pensacola and Trieste to continue in Miami.
"I am truly honoured to begin my tenure as International Chair here in North America, and look forward to January 2026, where the Melges 24 fleet continues to grow in strength, depth, and enthusiasm," said Duncan Stamper, incoming Chair of the IM24CA.
"This championship sets the tone for an exceptional year ahead, one that will carry us through a busy and competitive schedule across the continent and ultimately to the 2026 World Championship in Harbor Springs. The momentum within this Class is extraordinary, and I look forward to supporting our sailors and organizers as we build on that success together."
The NAC promises the same world-class and expertly organized regatta experience that Bacardi Invitational events are known for. Whether competing as a Corinthian team or as a well-rounded pro outfit, the North Americans are the perfect way to kick off the 2026 season in style.
There is still time for teams to register, and all are encouraged to do so, book accommodations and secure storage for the Winter season as quickly as possible. The early entry deadline for the Melges 24 North Americans ends on December 22, 2025.