Brisbane Comes Alive as 56th Finn World Masters Sailing Championship Sets Sail

The sailing world turned its focus to Brisbane, Australia, where the 2026 Finn World Masters was inaugurated with much aplomb. Hosted by the Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron, the event witnessed more than a hundred sailors from 18 nations, ready to compete in a series of eight races.

This competition follows closely on the heels of the Finn Gold Cup, with several sailors still nursing their wounds, from what was undoubtedly a week of high-intensity sailing. Yet, the lure of the seas is irresistible, and many familiar faces from the Gold Cup are back, complemented by fresh additions to the fleet, making the atmosphere electric.

Other names to look out for include World No 1, Laurent Hay, and Britain’s Nick Craig, who despite facing equipment issues and mixed results in the previous competition, are sure to give a compelling performance.

The ceremonial opening was marked by Andy Denison, Finn Masters President, who opened the championship after receiving the Masters Gold Cup from former Finn Gold Cup winner, Thomas Schmid.

This string of Finn events in Brisbane represents the fruit of relentless efforts by the International Finn Association, Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron and numerous others who’ve worked tirelessly since 2016 to bring these events to life. As Brisbane basks in the glory of hosting this international sailing spectacle, the world eagerly watches on, anticipating a week of thrilling action on water.