by InTrieste
The city of Trieste is preparing to host Barcolana 56, the world’s largest sailing race, which will officially launch on Friday, October 4, and culminate in its iconic regatta on Sunday, October 13. With more than 300 events spanning both land and sea, this year’s edition celebrates the theme of “Positive Energies,” blending competitive sailing with initiatives centered on sustainability, education, and inclusion.
As in past years, Barcolana will draw thousands of sailors and enthusiasts to the Gulf of Trieste, cementing its status as one of the world’s premier sailing events. However, this year, a powerful message is being carried across the waves: gender equality and inclusion in a sport that has long been dominated by men.
Empowering Women at Sea
In collaboration with its presenting partner, the global insurance giant Generali, Barcolana is expanding its “Women in Sailing” initiative. Launched in 2019, this project seeks to increase female participation in sailing, particularly in leadership roles. The initiative includes a special race on October 11, exclusively for mixed teams, and the Generali Women in Sailing Trophy, awarded to the first crew with a female skipper to cross the finish line.
“Women in Sailing by Generali and Barcolana” has grown from a symbolic gesture into a multifaceted program designed to boost female participation at every level of the sport. Generali, in partnership with the Italian Sailing Federation (FIV) and World Sailing, has commissioned research to understand the obstacles preventing more women from taking the helm. The findings will inform new training and educational programs aimed at young sailors, helping break down the barriers that have traditionally limited women’s involvement in competitive sailing.
“Addressing these challenges today means ensuring more mixed teams on boats in the future,” said Andrea Sironi, Chairman of Generali, at the project’s launch. “Sport is an incredible tool for physical and mental development, and we are committed to fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion in every aspect of it.”
A Global Celebration of the Sea
Beyond the regatta, Barcolana 56 will include a wide range of activities. The event kicks off with a concert by Italian electronic rock band Subsonica, expected to draw large crowds. Throughout the opening weekend, athletes from across the region will participate in various aquatic events, from stand-up paddleboarding in Grado to beach sprints in Lignano and open-water swimming in Trieste.
As the regatta approaches, attention will shift back to the water with marquee competitions such as the Barcolana Maxi (October 9-11) and the Solaris Adriatic Cup (October 10-11), both showcasing some of the most impressive yachts in the world. The main event on October 13, which consistently attracts more than 2,000 boats and tens of thousands of spectators, is the culmination of this festival of the sea.
“Barcolana is no longer just a regatta—it’s a celebration of the sea,” said Mitja Gialuz, President of the Società Velica di Barcola e Grignano, which organizes the event. “We are proud to bring together such a wide variety of water sports and highlight the passion for the sea that unites people from around the world.”
On Land, a Cultural Feast
In addition to the action on the water, Barcolana’s influence is felt throughout the city of Trieste. In Piazza Unità, the city’s central square, the Barcolana Village will open on Saturday, October 5, featuring more than 200 exhibitors, sponsors, and institutions. A 50-foot yacht from the local Solaris shipyard will be docked in the heart of the square, showcasing Friuli Venezia Giulia’s shipbuilding expertise.
The village will also host an immersive exhibit, “Deep Blue Exploration Zone,” highlighting the critical relationship between the ocean and life on Earth. The installation features video footage from deep-sea exploration missions conducted by the Schmidt Ocean Institute and the WWF’s Miramare Marine Protected Area, encouraging visitors to reflect on the fragile ecosystems beneath the waves.
Barcolana’s commitment to education continues with The Human Safety Net initiative, organized by Generali, which offers free workshops for children focused on health and safety. “We’ve designed the Barcolana Village with a focus on joy, learning, and sharing,” said Gialuz. “It’s a place where everyone can come together to celebrate the sea.”
Looking Forward
As Barcolana 56 approaches, more than a thousand boats have already registered to compete, ranging from massive racing yachts to small family vessels. With participants traveling from across Europe, the event continues to grow in both scope and significance. This year, sailors from Slovenia and Croatia are expected to join the fleet in flotillas, adding to the regatta’s international flavor.
Interviews: FVG governor, Massimiliano Fedriga; Barcolana president, Mitja Gialuz; Emma Ursich, head of corporate identity at the Generali
