Star Class Honoring the Past, Leading the Future
Author: Sara Zanobini - September 16, 2024Registration is now OPEN for the 2025 Bacardi Cup - sailed on Biscayne Bay March 2-8, 2025!
March 02, 2026
|
||
|
Author: Bacardi Cup - March 01, 2025The 98th Bacardi Cup and 2025 Bacardi Invitational Regatta (BCIR), taking place from March 2-8, 2025, will set a new benchmark with a record-breaking entry list.
As the sailing world converges on Biscayne Bay once more, the 98th Bacardi Cup and BCIR are gearing up to host an even larger and more diverse fleet than ever before, solidifying their reputation as two of the most prestigious events on the global sailing stage. Building on the record-breaking success of the 2024 edition, the 98th Bacardi Cup and 2025 BCIR are already poised to shatter expectations, with over 210 entries representing twenty-six nations on the provisional entry list – a testament to their enduring appeal and growing legacy.
Racing kicks off on March 3, with the 98th Bacardi Cup for the Star Class, followed by the J/70, Melges 24, Snipe, Viper 640 and VX One classes, who open their three-day regatta on March 6.
“We are super proud of the record-breaking level of entries, the largest ever gathered in Miami,” said Eddie Cutillas of Bacardi USA. “To our returning sailors, welcome back - we are excited to have you here once again. And to those joining us for the first time, we are delighted to see the word spreading about what makes this event so special. We hope this is just the beginning of your journey with us.
“The Bacardi Cup and BCIR are a celebration of sailing excellence, camaraderie, and, let’s be honest, a whole lot of fun. Whether you are a seasoned competitor, a first-time participant, or a passionate spectator, Miami welcomes you with open arms. This is where champions come to sail, and we are proud to see the regatta’s legacy continue to grow.”
The event brings together a unique blend of sailing legends, Olympians, World Champions, and amateurs, all drawn to the world-class competition and challenge of racing on Biscayne Bay. Off the water the magic continues, as the legendary Bacardi hospitality takes center stage post-race, creating an unforgettable atmosphere of friendship and celebration. The event is as much about camaraderie as it is about competition.
98th Bacardi Cup: A Star-studded showdown
The Bacardi Cup, a cornerstone of sailing excellence since 1927, will once again showcase the legendary Star Class, with nearly seventy entries representing sixteen nations set to compete. Racing gets underway at 12:00 hours on March 3, featuring one daily long-distance race throughout the six-day series.
Last year’s Bacardi Cup reached new heights as Mateusz Kusznierewicz and Bruno Prada clinched their historic fifth consecutive victory, cementing their legacy as one of the most dominant teams in the event’s storied history. As they return to defend their title at the 98th edition, the stakes have never been higher.
The 2025 Bacardi Cup promises thrilling battles between sailing legends and a new generation of talent. Defending champions Kusznierewicz and Prada will face fierce competition from past winners, including Eric Doyle and Payson Infelise, as well as Frithjof Kleen who teams up with Paul Cayard. While Cayard boasts a Star Worlds title, the elusive Bacardi Cup victory remains a coveted prize for the sailing icon.
A host of top international Star teams will be in the mix, including Piet Eckert and Frederico Melo from Switzerland, Peter O'Leary and Stephen Milne from Ireland, and Jørgen Schönherr and Markus Koy of Germany. They will go head-to-head with former Star World Champions, including Augie Diaz and John MacCausland.
These seasoned teams will be challenged by a wave of rising stars emerging from initiatives like the Bacardi Cup U30 Program. This groundbreaking initiative, designed to nurture young sailors through financial support and competitive opportunities, is already transforming the future of the Star Class. In 2025, ten U30 teams are poised to make their mark, adding an exciting dynamic to the regatta and ensuring the Bacardi Cup continues as a beacon of innovation and tradition in the sailing world. The Bacardi Cup U30 program operates in partnership with the Star Class and their Star Education and Access (SEA) program.
A Celebration of Sailing, Community and Tradition
Beyond the racing, the event is renowned for its vibrant social scene. Miami’s unique blend of glamour and laid-back charm provides the perfect setting for sailors to unwind and celebrate after a day on the water.
At the heart of it all is Bacardi, whose unwavering support has made this regatta more than just a competition - it's a celebration of sailing, friendship, and shared passion. From legendary hospitality to unforgettable post-race gatherings, Bacardi’s legacy of bringing people together continues to define the event’s spirit.
The regatta’s grand finale, the awards ceremony on Saturday, March 8, 2025, will honor the winners with coveted podium trophies and class prizes. But for many, the true reward is the camaraderie, the memories, and the chance to be part of a tradition that spans nearly a century.
Our sponsors and supporters play a vital role in making this week unforgettable. North Sails will provide daily weather briefings, post-race debriefs , and sail repairs. Nautical Ventures will support our media team with dedicated ribs. Mr.C Miami, Sail 22, Team One Newport, Hatuey, Gill, Think Inflatables, Tuuci, and Harken Derm are also onsite and integral to enhancing the event experience.
The 98th Bacardi Cup and BCIR are organized in collaboration with our club partners: Coral Reef Yacht Club, Shake-A-Leg Miami, Biscayne Bay Yacht Club, Coconut Grove Sailing Club, the US Sailing Center, and Dinner Key Marina.
Author: Bacardi - March 05, 2025March 5, 2025 - Miami, Fl. USA - Day 3 at the 98th Bacardi Cup delivered another stunning show, with a consistent 15-20 knots southerly breeze across Biscayne Bay. Jack Jennings and Pedro Trouche claimed a decisive victory, showcasing tactical mastery and flawless execution.
Spotting a crucial wind-shift two minutes before the start, Jennings/Trouche positioned themselves strategically a few boats in from the pin end. Launching off the line with superb speed, they executed a bold port-tack, crossing the fleet to head right upwind. Their move secured them a convincing lead, which they held from start to finish.
“We got a little lucky,” commented Jennings. “There was some open space on the line near the favoured end and we got there early to check both sides and figured out the wind was in a left phase, so it was a pretty good advantage on the left-hand side.”
Jennings/Trouche opted to tack relatively early, spurred on by Will Stout/Danny Cayard shouting for them to make the move. In contrast to Monday’s shifty conditions, which demanded countless tacks, only two were needed to reach the windward mark. Jennings/Trouche nailed a perfect rounding, with Stout/Cayard chasing in second, followed by Peter Bromby/Mark Strube rounding third after their strong pin end start.
Jennings, a veteran of over twelve Bacardi Cups appearances, is competing in his fourth event with Trouche. Reflecting on the performance, he remained cautiously optimistic, saying, “We have won races at Bacardi before. One year, in 2022, we won two races, and we are going to be happy about this. But for us it is about the series result. We have got to stay consistent, there is a lot of regatta left.”
The pair has been training in Miami in January, as Jennings explained, “This is definitely the pinnacle, so this is what we shoot for every year. The race course being long and the breeze being up like this, that is what we love.”
Trouche, who is fresh off winning the 2024 Star South American Championship with Paul Cayard, highlighted the synergy he has with Jennings, adding, “We got a lot of synch, especially on the downwind. We train a lot in the Finn against each other, so this really helps to know exactly what the boat needs and what we need to do to keep the boat on a nice flow.”
A phenomenal second place finish from the 2024 Star World silver medallists, Will Stout/Danny Cayard. The conditions so far, Stout has described as the windiest they have sailed together. Describing the racing, Stout explained, “The shifts were relatively small, so it was really kind of a boat speed day, clear lanes and get out and go.”
They also spotted the left shift, starting just to leeward of Jennings/Trouche, and tacked soon after the start. “It was a long port grind all the way to the right corner. It was forever,” continued Stout.
Reflecting on how he felt seeing the series leaders behind them, Stout laughed, “I think that is what everyone is trying to do right now! Obviously, Mateusz is sailing quite well and has throughout history, so we are just trying to watch and continue to learn from him. We are still relatively new in the class, and Danny and I just started sailing together at the Worlds.”
The duo secured an impressive second-place finish at the 2024 Star Worlds, marking a milestone achievement for Danny Cayard, who carries on the legacy as a third-generation Star sailor.
Paul Cayard/Frithjof Kleen finished fourth, holding their second place on the leaderboard and within striking distance of series leaders Mateusz Kusznierewicz/Bruno Prada, who took third. Cayard, the reigning South American, and North American Champion with son Danny, continues his quest for the Bacardi Cup title which has so far eluded him.
Croatia’s Marin Misura/Tonko Barac climbed into the top 10, with a fifth-place finish. In twenty-second overall, Germany’s Nick Heuwinkel/Jesper Spehr lead the U30 fleet in their Bacardi Cup debut.
Race 4 is scheduled to start at 1200 hrs on Thursday, with the series discard set to shake up the leaderboard after Friday’s race five.
Provisional Results - Top 10 after Race 3
1. Mateusz Kusznierewicz/Bruno Prada (POL 8587) - 5 pts
2. Paul Cayard/Frithjof Kleen (USA 8550) - 11 pts
3. Jack Jennings/Pedro Trouche (USA 8464) - 19 pts
4. Eric Doyle/Payson Infelise (USA 8580) - 21 pts
5. Will Stout/Danny Cayard (USA 8538) - 22 pts
6. Hubert Merkelbach/Christian Nehammer (GER 8446) - 22 pts
7. Marin Misura/Tonko Barac (CRO 8531) - 28 pts
8. Piet Eckert/Frederico Melo (SUI 8599) - 34 pts
9. Leandro Altolaguirre/Lucas Altolaguirre (ARG 8565) - 37 pts
10. Peter O’Leary/Joost Houweling (IRL 8465) - 38 pts
Author: Bacardi Cup - March 03, 2025The 98th Bacardi Cup, held from March 3-8, 2025, kicked off in spectacular fashion, living up to its reputation. With sixty-five Star teams competing, the opening day delivered thrilling action and set the tone for what promises to be an unforgettable week of racing.
A steady easterly breeze of 11-13 knots provided perfect conditions for the opener. Defending champions and five-time winners Mateusz Kusznierewicz and Bruno Prada need no introduction. Once again, they proved their dominance, applying relentless pressure on the fleet. In a nail-biting finish, they clinched victory in the final meters by the narrowest of margins, edging out John Dane III/Markus Koy.
The day’s racing began with a general recall, and on the second start Piet Eckert/Frederico Melo seized the early advantage. Making a notable return to Biscayne Bay, after more than a decade-long absence, was Bermuda’s Peter Bromby, a three-time Bacardi Cup champion (2009, 2003, 2001), sailing with Mark Strube, the 2005 winner. They closely tailed Eckert/Melo upwind, while Kusznierewicz/Prada steadily worked their way into contention.
Eckert/Melo rounded the windward mark in the lead, but their advantage was short-lived as Dane/Koy executed a perfect move to take control of the fleet. Kusznierewicz/Prada also edged through, to sit right behind in second place as they headed downwind. The shifty conditions rewarded those who could make gains by playing the puffs.
Through the gate and back upwind, Dane/Koy and Kusznierewicz/Prada approached from opposite tacks. Dane/Koy crossed Kusznierewicz/Prada, with the two rounding the windward mark in that order. Eric Doyle/Payson Infelise, the 2019 Bacardi Cup champions, held third place, while Eckert/Melo slipped to fourth, followed by Paul Cayard/Frithjof Kleen in fifth.
The final downwind leg delivered intense drama as Dane/Koy initially held a comfortable lead and a massive duel unfolded. However, Kusznierewicz/Prada showcased their exceptional downwind dynamics to gradually reel them in inch by inch and close the gap. In a nail-biting finish, the two boats were neck-and-neck with just 200 metres to go. When it mattered most, Kusznierewicz/Prada edged ahead to claim victory by just a few boat lengths.
“It was ‘Bacardi’ conditions on Biscayne Bay,” commented Kusznierewicz. “We didn’t actually start too well but played our game, and the goal was not to be too behind on the first top mark.
“We had a plan, but the only thing we didn’t know was there was going to be so much tacking! I think we did about forty tacks because of the wind shifts. Normally here you can end up with 4 tacks the whole race! So, it was quite exhausting!
“It was a fight with John Dane and Markus Koy. We had to really give it. I can sleep well today!”
With only marginal gains to be made upwind, their superior downwind speed was pivotal to success. Kusznierewicz steered the boat with just his fingers to minimise movement on the rudder, whilst they played the boat to catch the waves. “It is like dancing,” he explained.
Second to Dane/Koy, who held onto first or second throughout the race, and third to Doyle/Infelise. Dane/Koy clearly demonstrated the potential for them and others to challenge and possibly unseat Kusznierewicz/Prada.
“We had a very good first day. It was windy and we are one of the heavier crews,” said Dane. “You can’t ask for a better sail here on Biscayne Bay. I love doing the winter down here, I just love sailing here.”
Dane won the 2006 Bacardi Cup, and most recently finished 14th in 2024. Dane was equally pleased that their training partners, Doyle/Infelise, who finished third, almost caught the leading two downwind. Doyle first sailed with Dane when he was twelve years old, so they enjoy a long-standing friendship.
“It was as good as it gets on Biscayne Bay,” said Doyle. “It was shifty, a really hard fleet, with everyone coming from every direction and it was great. The Bacardi Cup is the big draw to bring everyone here in the winter – it’s fantastic. Now it’s time to enjoy some nice Bacardi cocktails!”
Leading the ten U30 teams are Roman Stelzl/Pirmin Sablatnig in twenty-second overall.
The fleet extends their heartfelt thanks to the Mr. C Miami Coconut Grove Hotel for hosting a truly special cocktail party after racing for the Star Class teams. The evening was an unforgettable experience for all.
Racing continues on Tuesday, March 4, with racing scheduled to start at midday.
Provisional Results – Top 10 after Race 1
1. Mateusz Kusznierewicz/Bruno Prada (POL 8587) - 1 pt
2. John Dane III/Markus Koy (USA 8504) - 2 pts
3. Eric Doyle/Payson Infelise (USA 8580) - 3 pts
4. Paul Cayard/Frithjof Kleen (USA 8550) - 4 pts
5. Piet Eckert/Frederico Melo (SUI 8599) - 5 pts
6. John MacCausland/Samuel Gonzalez (USA 8448) - 6 pts
7. Hubert Merkelbach/Christian Nehammer (GER 8446) - 7 pts
8. John Loe/Phil Trinter (USA 8481) - 8 pts
9. Leandro Altolaguirre/Lucas Altolaguirre (ARG 8565) - 9 pts
10. Peter Bromby/Mark Strube (BER 8317) - 10 pts
Thank you to our sponsors and supporters play a vital role in making this week unforgettable: North Sails, Nautical Ventures, Mr.C Miami, Sail 22, Team One Newport, Hatuey, Gill, Think Inflatables, Tuuci, and Harken Derm are all integral to enhancing the event experience.
The 98th Bacardi Cup and BCIR are organized in collaboration with our club partners: Coral Reef Yacht Club, Shake-A-Leg Miami, Biscayne Bay Yacht Club, Coconut Grove Sailing Club, the US Sailing Center, and Dinner Key Marina.
Author: Bacardi Group - March 04, 2025March 4, 2025 - Miami, Fl. USA - On day two of the 98th Bacardi Cup, the pressure mounted on Biscayne Bay, as strong winds swept across the water, prompting a postponement ashore.
Racing got underway at 1400 hours, with the fleet greeted by demanding yet thrilling conditions. A big breeze of 20 knots, big waves and a powerful swell combined for an epic day on the bay.
Sailing a Star in 20 knots of breeze is difficult and the two-hour race tested both skill and endurance. The top teams, who found the balance and the sweet spot with all the boat’s settings, demonstrated the difference between them and the rest. Five-time defending champions Mateusz Kusznierewicz/Bruno Prada delivered another masterclass, dominating from start to finish and solidifying their reputation as the team to beat.
Experience proved decisive as Kusznierewicz/Prada showcased they are masters of all conditions. They burst off the start line with precision, five boats down from the committee boat and ready to execute their game plan. While Croatia’s Marin Misura/Tonko Barac owned the best start, it was Kusznierewicz/Prada who methodically extended their lead up the first leg and beyond, to claim their second win.
|
Author: Bacardi Cup - March 06, 2025Over six hundred sailors in more than 200 boats and representing 24 countries took to the water across four race courses off Miami today. The Melges 24, J/70, Snipe, Viper 640 and VX One classes joined the Star fleet for the Bacardi Invitational Regatta, in a spectacular showcase of international sailing talent.
On the water it was a fantastic sight with boats filling Biscayne Bay. Shoreside you couldn’t walk down the dock without rubbing shoulders with Olympians, World Champions, America’s Cup sailors and some of the sport’s greatest names from around the world. Biscayne Bay served up wind, sun and perfect planning conditions. It was a day of dial shifting, as teams changed tempo to adapt to the variable pressure.
Nailing a win in race 4 of the Bacardi Cup, Paul Cayard/Frithjof Kleen edge closer to series leaders and defending champions Mateusz Kusznierewicz/Bruno Prada. Some phenomenal performances in the other classes saw plenty of contenders go full stretch to establish themselves on the leaderboard. Notable was a hat trick from Ernesto Rodriguez/Taylor Scheuermann in the Snipe.
After racing, it was time to soak up the atmosphere shoreside accompanied by Bacardi’s renowned hospitality. The event dances to a serious and fun tune, blending world-class racing, lively parties and a unique lifestyle experience, in celebration of the spirit of sailing.
Racing continues on Friday, March 7, with the first starts scheduled for 1200 hrs.
98th Bacardi Cup
The leaderboard tightened as Cayard/Kleen claimed victory in Race 4, narrowing the gap to just 2 points behind series leaders Mateusz Kusznierewicz and Bruno Prada.
As the battle for supremacy intensifies, Cayard/Kleen have positioned themselves as the favourites to overhaul Kusznierewicz/Prada. The defending champions have an insatiable desire to win, but it is never an easy ride to win the Bacardi Cup.
Cayard/Kleen were delighted to get a win, adding to an already impressive scorecard of 4,3,4,1. They astutely interpreted the super tricky 10-12 knot breeze and big shifts. Cayard described the day’s racing as a test of skill and adaptability, with "north-west winds, which are common and very, very shifty." Reflecting on their strategy, he admitted, "We started a little too far to the right, so we had to work the right side on the first beat and take our opportunities to get back with the boats on the left, which were the leaders."
Despite the early challenge, Cayard/Kleen stayed focused. "We just sailed the shifts pretty much the whole race,"Cayard added, "and we were fortunate enough to work our way back up to the front. We were pretty happy with the day."
A special father/son moment unfolded as Paul found himself in a battle to the finish with his son Danny, racing with Will Stout. The race culminated in a nail-biter, with Cayard/Kleen beating Stout/Cayard by about a foot.
For Danny, the Bacardi Cup has been a special experience, not just for the racing but for the chance to compete alongside his father. “I don’t know what else you could ask for here at the Bacardi with the wind and the shifts and the close competition,” he said. “For me to be able to race against my dad so close, it’s just been amazing. Looking forward to two more.”
Third to Eric Doyle/Payson Infelise, with Jack Jennings/Pedro Trouche finishing in fourth.
Provisional Results - Top 3 after Race 5
1. Mateusz Kusznierewicz/Bruno Prada (POL 8587) - 10 pts
2. Paul Cayard/Frithjof Kleen (USA 8550) - 12 pts
3. Jack Jennings/Pedro Trouche (USA 8464) - 23 pts
Thank you to our sponsors and supporters play a vital role in making this week unforgettable: North Sails, Nautical Ventures, Mr.C Miami, Sail 22, Team One Newport, Hatuey, Gill, Think Inflatables, Tuuci, and Harken Derm are all integral to enhancing the event experience.
The 98th Bacardi Cup and BCIR are organized in collaboration with our club partners: Coral Reef Yacht Club, Shake-A-Leg Miami, Biscayne Bay Yacht Club, Coconut Grove Sailing Club, the US Sailing Center, and Dinner Key Marina.
Author: Bacardi Cup - March 07, 2025On the penultimate day of racing at the 98th Bacardi Cup and Bacardi Invitational Regatta, Biscayne Bay demonstrated all the reasons why sailing is a thinking person’s sport. With light and shifty breezes, both teams and the Race Committee were kept on their toes.
The Race Committee made an early decision to postpone all fleets ashore as they waited for the wind to fill in. Today separated the best from the rest, requiring a lot of transitions in response to the changing breeze. Perfectly executed team plays saw the frontrunners working together to dominate the course, while across all fleets new teams staked their names on the race wins.
98th Bacardi Cup
After four attempts to start race 5 for the Star, each of which had to be postponed as the wind kept shifting up to 50 degrees, racing got underway on attempt number five.
All eyes were on the five-time defending Champions Mateusz Kusznierewicz/Bruno Prada and their closest rivals Paul Cayard/Frithjof Kleen, the only team realistically capable of challenging. Upwind both teams headed to the right, with Kusznierewicz/Prada holding a slight edge over Cayard/Kleen. However, neither team was at the front of the pack, with both sitting in the mid-teens at this stage.
A performance pedigree as deep as that of Kusznierewicz/Prada ensures they are always the ones to beat. Whatever position they find themselves in, they have an extraordinary ability to make gains. On the left on the first downwind, they took a roll of the dice, becoming the first boat to gybe. Boat by boat chipped their way through the fleet, delivering another masterclass to claw back and secure a second-place finish. Their unstoppable performance has secured them mathematical victory at the 98th Bacardi Cup with a race to spare.
Commenting on their strategy to stay focused with the repeated starts, Prada explained, “We already had four good races, so we did not feel that much pressure today, as we still had today and tomorrow to do good results. We have a lot of experience, and we are used to being in this situation.”
Kusznierewicz explained, “We also reset. For one minute we take the pressure off, just quiet on the boat, with Bruno and I just in our own world. Then building towards the new start, looking what settings, where to start, what the wind is going to do. So, you are resetting and building again, resetting and building.”
Commenting on their tactics, Kusznierewicz continued, “We knew this is going to be a long race. So, we pass a couple of boats the first downwind, we pass I think five boats second upwind. Then I think we passed four boats the last downwind. With this kind of mindset you know that maybe on the beginning it is not going your way, but you’re looking for every opportunity to catch here, catch here. We enjoyed it,”
Whilst Kusznierewicz/Prada surged ahead, Cayard/Kleen did the opposite, ultimately crossing the line in 28th. “Obviously we had a bad day today, a terrible day,” admitted a disappointed Cayard.
Cayard’s son Danny, crewing for Will Stout, claimed the race win to secure their place in the final battle for a podium finish.
The leaderboard top five have separated themselves from the rest of the fleet. It all comes down to Saturday’s race 6 to determine which two teams from the chasing pack of four will join the champions Kusznierewicz/Prada on the podium. Cayard/Kleen, Stout/Cayard, Eric Doyle/Payson Infelise and Jack Jennings/Pedro Trouche are separated by just 6 points.
Provisional Results - Top 3 after Race 5
1. Mateusz Kusznierewicz/Bruno Prada (POL 8587) - 7 pts
2. Paul Cayard/Frithjof Kleen (USA 8550) - 12 pts
3. Will Stout/Danny Cayard (USA 8538) - 13 pts
Author: Bacardi Cup - March 08, 2025On a day where every gust mattered and every tack counted, Biscayne Bay transformed the light-air finale into a masterclass of precision and teamwork. With the 6-10 knot breeze whispering across the water, the fleet faced postponements and shifting conditions, turning the racecourse into a stage for tactical brilliance
The 98th Bacardi Cup fleet was a who’s-who of sailing greatness, featuring six former Bacardi Cup winners, eleven Star World Champions and a host of Star Class legends. Consistency across six races was a monumental task, but Mateusz Kusznierewicz/Bruno Prada rose to the occasion once again, defending their title and securing an incredible sixth consecutive victory with a race to spare.
The 98th Bacardi Cup and Bacardi Cup Invitational Regatta made history, with a record-breaking entry uniting over 600 sailors across 200 teams to compete for some of sailing’s most coveted titles. The event concluded in style with a spectacular prize-giving at Shake a Leg Miami, followed by the legendary Bacardi after-party.
The sense of being part of something special is palpable, as this jewel in the sailing calendar draws teams back year after year with its unique blend of world-class racing and unforgettable camaraderie. Save the date and come sail with us from March 1-7, 2026.
98th Bacardi Cup
The desire to win amongst the world’s best makes the Bacardi Cup an annual pilgrimage. This year, 65 Star teams made the journey to Miami, where since 1962 the Coral Reef Yacht Club has proudly hosted the event.
Winning the Bacardi Cup is an ultimate ambition for Star sailors - a rare achievement that is open to all but attained by only a few. The Bacardi Cup exudes an air of relaxed camaraderie, yet out on the race track lies a battlefield where only the extraordinary prevail. Victory is never promised, and the leaderboard stands as a testament to unmatched skill and perseverance.
Yet, once again, Mateusz Kusznierewicz/Bruno Prada defended their title, securing an incredible sixth consecutive win. By the end of Friday’s race 5, the duo had already clinched victory, as a remarkable comeback through the fleet to finish in second place left them with an unassailable scorecard. With a 5th-place discard, their total score would only rise to 12 points whatever their result from today’s final race, making it mathematically impossible for Paul Cayard/Frithjof Kleen to catch them. Out of respect for the event and their fellow sailors, Kusznierewicz/Prada sailed the final race, finishing 19thwhile staying clear of the front-runners.
With the title out of reach, Cayard/Kleen shifted focus to defending their second place. The podium battle would be intense, with just 6 points separating the teams in second through fourth. The race 6 showdown was set between Cayard/Kleen, Will Stout/Danny Cayard, Eric Doyle/Payson Infelise, and Jack Jennings/Pedro Trouche.
In a riveting race, Cayard/Kleen fell out of contention early, slipping through the pack. At the finish, Doyle/Infelise and Jennings/Trouche were neck and neck, vying for second overall. Jennings/Trouche needed at least one boat between themselves and Doyle/Infelise to move up but couldn’t manage it, settling for third overall as they crossed the finish line in 3rd just ahead of their rivals in fourth. Doyle/Infelise claimed second overall, while Stout/Cayard ended the regatta in fourth, with Cayard/Kleen rounding out the top five.
Following tradition, Eddie Cutillas of Bacardi was at the finish line to congratulate Kusznierewicz/Prada. Later at the prize giving, amidst huge applause, the champions celebrated their remarkable achievement by sipping Bacardi rum from the iconic Bacardi Cup Trophy and Tito Bacardi Cup.
Kusznierewicz/Prada have forged a genius and formidable team to remain as custodians of the Bacardi Cup Trophy and Tito Bacardi Cup for six successive years: 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024 and 2025. They first made history in 2023, as the only same-crew team to win five consecutive times and have now reset the history books again. They will however need to add another three titles to their trophy cabinet to match the eight titles achieved by James ‘Ding’ Schoonmaker.
A bit overwhelmed after their win, Kusznierewicz said, “I’m still trying to get this win into myself. I still can’t believe we made it. It’s every time a different regatta, every time we have like a fresh approach, but now it comes to me that we did something unbelievable. Six years in a row to sail so well, especially that the fleet is so strong and every year is a little bit different game. It’s amazing, I still don’t feel it.”
“It’s an outstanding thing,” added Prada. “Not to win six Bacardi’s, but six in a row. It is not normal in the Star Class that this happens. Since I started sailing Star, I never saw this before. We have a program to develop equipment and sailing and everything with Augie, and I think this make a big difference.”
They make winning the Bacardi Cup look effortless, but Kusznierewicz assures it is anything but, saying, “Trust me it’s not easy. We left everything on the racecourse. It’s amazing how tired we are. It’s full concentration, it’s feeling the wind, analysing everything. Before the race we spent hours on discussion and analysing the weather forecast, the settings, our notes, what other people were doing. It is hours, days, weeks or months of preparation. This is the sport on the highest performance level, and this is how we approach this. We just spoke after finishing that it was one of the toughest Bacardi Cups for us physically.”
Kusznierewicz also shared some words of wisdom from his idol John Bertrand, which still inspire him, noting, “His way of approaching life and the key to longevity is ‘someone to love, something interesting to do and something to look forward to’, and I think together with Bruno, we’ve got it also in our lives.”
The U30 Bacardi Cup continues to nurture the next generation of talent, with ten U30 teams competing this year. Top U30 finishers Nick Heuwinkel/Jesper Spehr (23rd overall), along with champions Kusznierewicz/Prada, will receive Bacardi’s support to compete at the Star Class Worlds in Croatia, from September 5-13, 2025.
Final Star Results - Top 3
1. Mateusz Kusznierewicz/Bruno Prada (POL 8602) - 12pts
2. Eric Doyle/Payson Infelise (USA 8580) – 20 pts
3. Jack Jennings/Pedro Trouche (USA 8464) - 21 pts
Prizes were also presented to the category winners:
U30 (skipper under 30) - Nick Heuwinkel/Jesper Spehr
Master (skippers aged 50 through 59) - Eric Doyle/Payson Infelise
Grand Master (skippers aged 60+) - Paul Cayard/Frithjof Kleen
Exalted Grand Master (skippers aged 70+) - Augie Diaz/Tudor Bilic
Tammy Rubin-Rice Trophy - Hubert Merkelbach/Christian Nehammer
