Image: International Paint Poole Regatta © Ian Roman

The next International Paint Poole Regatta will take place over the late May bank holiday 2026. The enviable track record Poole has built for hosting unmissable regattas continues in 2026 with the inclusion of the prestigious IRC European Championship as an integral element of racing, alongside multiple class starts across many of the most popular yacht racing classes. 

The dates to save in your calendar: 

IRC European Championship - 4 days - Friday 22nd to Monday 25th May

All other classes - 3 days - Saturday 23rd to Monday 25th May

Poole Regatta has become a key biennial feature of the yacht racing calendar drawing sailors from all over the UK, Europe and beyond to race in one of the fastest growing and most popular yachting events in the UK.  Highly competitive racing combined with a great atmosphere and buzzing social gatherings has proven to be a great combination.

Following the huge success in 2024 of Poole hosting the first GBR IRC Nationals to be held outside of the Solent, RORC has entrusted the combined yacht clubs of Poole to organise and run the 2026 IRC European Championship.  Sailors from around the UK, across the Channel and over the Irish Sea will join together for four days of competitive racing in a spectacular environment, framed by the Purbeck Hills and Jurassic Coast.  

Commenting on the agreement for Poole Regatta to host the IRC European Championship, Jeremy Wilton, Chief Executive of RORC remarked, “The 2024 GBR IRC National Championship in Poole was an exceptionally well-organised and successful event. For the 2026 IRC European Championship, we anticipate strong participation from UK and international boats. Poole and the surrounding bay is a fantastic venue, supported by International Paint Poole Regatta’s excellent organisation and Poole’s vibrant sailing community”.