Chieffi and Colaninno Dominate to Claim 2025 Star Class Title Early!

Viareggio, Italy - Enrico Chieffi and Nando Colaninno have made waves at the 2025 Star Class European Championships held off the stunning Tuscan coast. With one race to spare, the duo has clinched the championship title, securing their place in history as they brightened the competitive stage of sailing. On the third day of this riveting regatta, Chieffi and Colaninno demonstrated remarkable speed, tactical skills, and composure to win Race 5, bringing the cheer of victory in conditions that boasted 6 to 8 knots of sea breeze and clear blue skies. As reported by Live Sail Die, this win marks their second victory in the series, solidifying their championship mathematically.

As Chieffi celebrated his triumph, he acknowledged the tough competition and the unique advantage of navigating familiar waters. „It was great to race here,“ he shared, underlining how the local knowledge played a significant role in their strategy. The dynamic duo’s success rests not only on their physical prowess but also on their ability to manage stress in a high-stakes environment.

High Stakes and razor-thin margins

The competition at the championships is nothing short of fierce. A quick glance reveals a neck-and-neck race for the remaining medals as several teams vie for second and third place. Among those in contention are Tonči Stipanović & Tudor Bilic from Croatia, Renato Conde & Taavi Taveter from Portugal/Estonia, and American pair Paul Cayard & George Iverson. Chieffi’s latest victory means the spotlight brightens on teams like Jack Jennings and Pedro Trouche, who recently clinched a win for Race 6, lifting their spirits and positions within the standings.

Day Two of the regatta showcased some nail-biting competition, with races running under high-stakes circumstances. According to Star Championships, two races took place, with starting procedures marred by general recalls that led to disqualifications for seven teams. Giampiero Poggi and Davide Mugnaini experienced a local victory, claiming their first win of the series in Race 3. Meanwhile, Paul McKenzie and Florian Faucheaux took home a win in Race 4, marking them as top performers on that bustling day.

From Start to Finish

The championship kicked off on June 9, 2025, with the opening day witnessing two races. Conditions were tricky, with light breezes challenging sailors to find their rhythm. Tonči Stipanović and Tudor Bilic started strong by winning the first race of the series, followed by American sailor Paul Cayard, who showcased his talent in the second race. As detailed by Sail-World, the event featured 70 participating boats, illustrating the intense and competitive nature of the sport.

As the final race approaches on Saturday, June 14, excitement builds among competitors and spectators alike. The official prize-giving ceremony follows the last race, where champions and challengers come together in the Regatta Village. Local sponsors, including G&B Ropes, Slam Telemar, and CTN, have made this spectacular event possible in collaboration with Club Nautico Versilia and Società Velica Viareggina. With the coast of Viareggio as a backdrop, the 2025 Star Class European Championships not only celebrate victories but forge memories that will endure in the hearts of those who love sailing.