From 20 to 27 June 2026, Bregenz will be the meeting place for international 8-metre racing yachts. The Yacht Club Bregenz will then organise the world championship for this traditional class. Last weekend, the classic eights practised off Langenargen. YACHT photographer Tobias Stoerkle has captured the best moments in the gallery.
The 8mR BMK Classic Regatta was held from 30-31 May by the LOCEMA 8mR Class Lake of Constance The event was organised by the BMK Yacht Club, the association of 8mR yachts of the First, Second and Third Rule based on Lake Constance. The venue was the BMK marina in Langenargen. This made the regatta an ideal preparation for the upcoming World Championship.
World Championship with large participation
19 classic boats from seven nations and around 150 sailors are expected to take part in the World Championships alone. With less than a month to go before the starting signal, the organisation is on the home straight. The Yacht Club Bregenz is working intensively with its partners on the final preparations.
There is a special highlight right at the start: On Sunday, 21 June 2026, the World Championships will be officially opened at Bregenz harbour at 4 pm with a grand opening ceremony. The event is open to the public and offers the opportunity to experience yachts and crews up close.
Prominent sailors
Werner Deuring will also be competing among the international field of participants. The man from Bregenz is President of the International Eight Metre Association (IEMA) and sails the world championship on his yacht "Pandora".
The 8mR yachts combine sporting competition with unique tradition and elegance. The fact that the 2026 World Championship will take place in Bregenz is something special for the entire class."
says Werner Deuring. "Sailing a world championship with the Pandora in my own home harbour is a personal highlight for me."
Great attention from the sailing community
The organising committee is also looking forward to the event with great anticipation. "We can already feel the great attention in the sailing community for this world championship," says Wolfgang Mähr, President of the OC team. "Our aim is not only to offer the teams and guests perfect sporting conditions, but also to allow them to experience the special atmosphere of Lake Constance and the city of Bregenz."
In addition to the races, the World Championship will also become a meeting place for sailing and hospitality on land.
