The Admiral’s Cup will be returning to Isle of Wight waters after more than two decades. organised by Cowes' Royal Ocean Racing Club in 2025.

Provisional dates have been unveiled for between July 19, 2025 and August 1, 2025 and after that it will be every two years.

Racing will be both inshore and offshore, with teams of two boats, representing a yacht club or country.

Last held in 2003, the 2005 Admiral's Cup was cancelled at short notice. There were also rumours of a revival in 2011.

What is the Admiral's Cup?

  • Established in 1957, The Admiral’s Cup is widely known as sailing's unofficial world cup for offshore racing.
  • Teams from Great Britain have been the most successful - winning the trophy nine times.
  • Germany has won four times, the USA and Australia have won three times each.
  • Australia is the current holder.

RORC Commodore James Neville said: "Bringing back the Admiral’s Cup is a wonderful way to celebrate the centenary of the Royal Ocean Racing Club.

"The chosen format for the 2025 competition respects the tradition of the regatta, as well as choosing IRC Classes for boats that are competing offshore at the top level internationally."

It is hoped two years' notice means top flight teams from across the globe will have time to prepare.

Who can enter the Admiral's Cup?

  • The Admiral’s Cup Class 1 fleet will involve boats with a length between 44ft (13.41m) and 56ft (17.20m), including the Cookson 50 and IRC 52/TP 52.
  • The Admiral’s Cup Class 2 boats will be between 36ft (11m) and 44ft (13.40m), including the MAT 1180, J/125, GP42, and Ker 46.
  • There will be no limitations on professional crew.
  • IRC crew numbers will be amended to allow one additional crew member, if a boat has two women, or two under 25 year old sailors, or a combination.

RORC Racing Manager Steve Cole said: "We are looking forward to welcoming competing teams to The Solent and Cowes.

"With a mixture of tight inshore racing and the challenge of offshore racing, culminating in the Rolex Fastnet Race, the Admiral’s Cup will deliver exciting racing.

"As for all RORC races, competitors, friends and families will be made very welcome at the RORC Cowes Clubhouse."

Pre-Notice of Race will be issued on Monday - two years to the day before the first race starts for the 2025 Admiral’s Cup.

The Royal Ocean Racing Club says it will write to all the major yacht clubs around the globe, inviting them to enter a team.