2026 Croatian Trophy Challenge started on 1st of May, and Race Committee succeeded in managing four races in two days for the 28 F18 fleet.
From Jedriličarski klub Šibenik – all pictures by High Moon Media
Day Two of the Croatian Trophy Challenge 2026: Maestral Separates the Strongest, Home Team in the Hunt for the Podium
The Šibenik archipelago showed its true face yesterday. After a gentler opening to the regatta, the second day of the Croatian Trophy Challenge 2026 brought a powerful, gusty maestral that pushed the Formula 18 fleet to the very edge of endurance – and produced sailing to remember.
The morning began with a steady northwesterly. The first race was sailed in slightly lighter air, but gusts were already hitting 18 knots, demanding total concentration as the crews threaded their way through the islands. A full 23 catamarans charged across the start line for Race 1, knowing that not a single manoeuvre would be forgiven.
The real test arrived in Race 2. The maestral ramped up to 25 knots, kicking up a short, steep chop and turning the racecourse into an arena for the hardiest. Of the 23 boats that started the first race, only 14 chose to take on the second – the ones ready to sail on the limit, with nothing held back.
It was in those conditions that the overall standings after two days crystallised:
- HUN 046 – Dioszegi / Jankovics
- ITA 69 – Mazzucchi / Lisignoli
- ITA 303 – Vigano / Vigano
The Hungarian-Italian trio has earned its place at the top, but the loudest cheers from the home crowd are reserved for the fourth-placed Croatian duo Ćurko / Gombač of JK Primošten. Just one step separates them from the podium – a real shot at seeing a home crew on the winners’ stage.
Ashore, the atmosphere is relaxed and rich with detail: every manoeuvre is analysed, rig settings are compared, and laughter mingles with the scent of salt and sea. Batteries are being recharged for the final day, because if the regatta’s rhythm so far is any guide, the last act will deliver plenty of uncertainty and dramatic shifts on the leaderboard.
So – head down to Jasenovo today. Watch the Formula 18 fleet fly across the waves in a true maestral. Sights like this don’t come around often, and the home team is within touching distance of a historic result. Come down, show your support, and be part of the story unfolding right here in Šibenik.
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