Porto, Portugal – August 2, 2025
The sails are up, the energy is high, and the international 29er fleet is officially launched into one of the most exciting championships in class history. The 2025 29er Porto World Championship has begun with an unforgettable celebration along the Atlantic coast of northern Portugal.
Set between the historic cities of Porto, Vila Nova de Gaia, and Matosinhos, the championship takes place from August 1 to 8, bringing together more than 400 youth sailors from 26 countries. With 202 teams racing in the iconic 29er skiff, the event represents the future of high-performance sailing — fast, global, and full of promise.
Check out the photos: HERE
Afurada & Douro Marina Celebrate in Style
The opening festivities were nothing short of spectacular. On the eve of racing, the streets of Afurada, a traditional fishing village in Vila Nova de Gaia, were transformed into a stage of color, rhythm, and international spirit. The vibrant parade of sailors, accompanied by the irresistible sounds of the Funk You Brass Band, wound its way from Afurada to Douro Marina — a joyful procession that energized the entire waterfront.
Local residents lined the cobbled streets, waving, cheering, and sharing the moment with athletes from across the globe. It was a rare and beautiful convergence of sport, culture, and community, culminating in a ceremonial raising of the national flags at Douro Marina.
The 29er World Championship Porto 2025 is not just a regatta — it’s a celebration of youth, ambition, and unity. The fleet includes sailors between the ages of 15 and 20, all proudly representing their countries and embracing the spirit of friendly competition. Among them, we are proud to feature a sailor competing for Australia who also holds Portuguese nationality — a meaningful connection in this home-country event.
Programme Overview & Racing Schedule
The competition officially begins on Sunday, August 3, with the Qualifying Series starting at 11:00. Races will be held in the Atlantic waters stretching between the Port of Leixões and Salgueiros Beach, covering all three host municipalities.
The event’s comprehensive programme combines elite racing with an engaging onshore schedule, including technical briefings, creative workshops, sustainability initiatives, and evening activities.
- Daily racing begins at 11:00
- Post-race “Pasta Time” social events
- Kidzink Creativity Workshops (Aug 3 & 4)
- Open Forum for sailors, coaches & parents (Aug 4)
- Musto Sustainability Workshop (Aug 7)
- World Council Meeting (Aug 6)
- Closing Ceremony & Awards (Aug 8)
Full programme: bbdouro.com/29er-porto-world-sailing-championship-2025
Creativity & Well-Being on the Water
More than just racing, the Porto Worlds champion a holistic approach to youth development. Sponsor Kidzink brings a fresh perspective to the sailing community through its Creativity on the Water initiative — a programme that explores the connection between mental well-being, identity, and sport.
Through hands-on workshops and open conversation, young sailors are invited to reflect on their experiences as athletes and individuals. This forward-thinking initiative strengthens the championship's identity as a launchpad for personal growth, not just podium success.
Share your voice: Creativity & Well-being Survey
A Championship with Purpose
The 2025 29er World Championship is brought to life by the dynamic collaboration between BBDouro and the municipalities of Porto, Vila Nova de Gaia, and Matosinhos. Their united commitment to youth sport and sustainable development ensures a world-class event on and off the water.
Support from visionary partners like Musto, the official Prize Sponsor, adds depth to the championship’s mission. This year, Musto has introduced the “Sustainability Sailor of the Month” award, recognizing young sailors who lead by example in environmental awareness.
Gratitude to the Global Sailing Community
The 29er Class wishes to express its heartfelt thanks to:
The host cities, for opening their communities to the world
The organizing committee and volunteers, who work tirelessly behind the scenes
The coaches, judges, parents, and support teams, whose dedication keeps the fleet racing
The sponsors, whose support builds a platform for young sailors to thrive
Let the Racing Begin
With the Atlantic as our racecourse, historic streets as our celebration ground, and a united international fleet ready to compete, the 2025 29er Porto World Championship is set to make history.
The next generation of sailors is here — fast, fearless, and full of potential. We’re proud to welcome them to Portugal for a week of world-class competition and unforgettable memories.
Watch the Daily highlight video here:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ae3b9gmi9Q8