by InTrieste
Barcolana 56, the world’s largest sailing regatta, launched its second day with a focus on inclusion and social impact, while also featuring some of the sport’s biggest names.
The event, which spans the Gulf of Trieste, saw the participation of Para Sailing athletes, highlighting the growing emphasis on making sailing more accessible. At a conference hosted by Barcolana and World Sailing, leaders reiterated their commitment to reintroducing sailing to the Paralympic Games. “Sailing is a sport without limits,” said Hanna Stodel, World Sailing’s Para Sailing head. Discussions centered on best practices for inclusive sports, with testimony from athletes and organizations working to remove barriers in the sport.
Barcolana also welcomed Olympic champions such as Giovanni Soldini and gold medalist Caterina Banti, who will sail aboard Andrea Illy’s yacht for a cause dear to the Italian humanitarian organization, Emergency. Their participation adds to the symbolic union of sport and solidarity at the event.
A new collaboration between Solaris Yachts and Fondazione Aquileia brought an artistic and cultural element to the regatta, with a video mapping installation in Piazza Unità d’Italia that celebrated Italy’s maritime history.
With over 600 boats competing and record participation in its Para Sailing events, Barcolana 56 continues to serve as a powerful platform for both elite sailing and social inclusion.
