45th Edition of Rolex Middle Sea Race Closes with a Roar

27 October 2024 - Valletta, Malta - The 2024 edition of the Mediterranean’s most famous 600-mile offshore race was one of the most memorable on record. Underwritten by true evidence of camaraderie and team spirit, the story is one of overcoming adversity and pushing through, a story of human endurance, courage and determination. A professionally crewed 100ft/30.48m Maxi SCALLYWAG 100 skippered by David Witt proved its potency. A young German crew RED BANDIT, TP52, skippered by Carl-Peter Forster, earned its spurs as an overall winner. Swiss Franco Niggeler's Cookson 50 KUKA 3 wins Overall ORC Category and Boccale del Mediterraneo Trophy. MARINA 21, First 36 by Milan Kolacek & Milan Tomek wins Double-Handed Class. 

Ahead of the awards presentations, David Cremona, Commodore of the Royal Malta Yacht Club, had this to say: “The 45th edition of the Rolex Middle Sea Race continues to build on the event’s rich history, firmly cementing its place as one of the most iconic offshore races in the world, while evolving with each passing year.” He felt this success was down to many factors, most significantly the diversity and competitiveness of the fleet, along with the commitment of owners and crew. Also, of course, the cast of 100s that work tirelessly to make the race possible.

“I must take a moment to acknowledge the tremendous hard work that takes place behind the scenes of the Rolex Middle Sea Race. Planning begins almost immediately after each race, bringing together countless individuals who help make this event a reality each October. Special thanks, however, go to the team led by Rear Commodore Georges Bonello DuPuis, who, along with the Race Committee, and Race Officers from the RMYC, and supported by the RORC, have once again delivered a truly remarkable event.”

Cremona also referenced the conditions that had tested the crews and those ashore: “Every Rolex Middle Sea Race edition brings its own challenges and stories. This year was no different, particularly with severe weather conditions on the first day. Several teams were forced to retire. Throughout, the race management team remained vigilant, closely monitoring the evolving situation and maintaining effective communication with the boats at sea. Their quick and decisive actions were crucial in ensuring the safety and smooth handling of these challenging circumstances.”

In addition to participating crews, the occasion was attended by several distinguished guests, in particular the Italian Ambassador Fabrizio Romano and the President of Malta Dr Myriam Spiteri Debono, who had this to say: “This year it was heartening to see that the event was patronised by 112 boats hailing from 30 different countries. Few sights warm the hearts of the Maltese more than the spectacle of the participating yachts exiting Grand Harbour at the start of the Rolex Middle Sea Race. The Royal Malta Yacht Club deserves our gratitude for the priceless contribution to the promotion of our islands so effectively and tangibly year after year.”

Seventy-one entries out of 112 were racing under ORC rating, 47 out of 71 completed the course, and 24 retired.

The 46th Rolex Middle Sea Race will start on Saturday, 18 October 2025

Event website

ORC Class Winners

ORC Category Overall & winner of Boccale del Mediterraneo Trophy

KUKA 3, Franco Niggeler, SUI

ORC Class Winners

• ORC 2 KUKA 3, Cookson 50, Franco Niggeler, SUI
• ORC 3 AFAZIK IMPULSE, Neo 430 Roma, Yves Grosjean, FRA
• ORC 4 ELUSIVE 2, First 45 mod, Aaron, Christoph & Maya Podesta, MLT
• ORC 5 MARINA 21, First 36, Milan Kolacek & Milan Tomek, CRO
• ORC 6 CALYPSO, Farr 30, Sebastian Ripard and Daniel Calascione, MLT

First Maltese Boat under ORC & winner of Teddie Borg Trophy

• CALYPSO, Sebastian Ripard and Daniel Calascione, MLT

First Italian boat under ORC & winner of Federazione Italian Vela Trophy

• BEWILD, Renzo Grottesi, ITA

Complete results