The 52 Super Series is breaking new ground in 2027, taking its world-class grand prix monohull circuit to Asia for the first time. Two regattas in Thailand next February and March mark a significant shift for the series, which has traditionally called European waters home.
The Thailand 52 Super Series Sailing Week runs 8–13 February, followed by the Rolex TP52 World Championship from 18–23 March. Both events will be hosted at Ocean Marina near Pattaya on the Gulf of Thailand, under the flag of the Royal Varuna Yacht Club. The timing is deliberate: crews will avoid the region’s notoriously light summer winds and instead catch the transition between the northerly January breeze and the southerly patterns arriving in March.
The push into Asian waters stems from a long-held ambition to race outside Europe every second year, broadening the series’ global reach and offering competitors fresh challenges. Kevin Whitcraft, co-owner of the Thai-flagged Vayu, which has competed on the series for five years, says the decision reflects growing appetite for world-class racing in new territories. “The marina has just been refurbished and the venue is spectacular and self-contained,” Whitcraft explains. “Thailand may have a reputation for light winds, but we should get some decent breeze during our window.”
The Whitcraft family’s involvement runs deep. In 2024 they hosted Her Majesty Queen Suthida of Thailand at Puerto Portals, where the Queen, an accomplished sailor, competed aboard Vayu. She is expected to be an active participant when the series arrives in her country.
Beyond Thailand, 2027 sees two more firsts for the circuit. Sorrento on the Bay of Naples enters the calendar for the first time (25–30 May), conveniently positioned near where the 38th America’s Cup will be sailed and coinciding with the opening round robin of the Louis Vuitton Cup. The series then heads to Scarlino in Tuscany (5–10 July), a familiar favourite from previous visits, before concluding at Puerto Portals, Mallorca (14–19 September).
CEO Agus Zulueta underscores the strategic intent: “We are committed to extending the global reach and profile of the 52 Super Series, visiting interesting places to share new challenges and cultural experiences together.”
A new trophy structure adds flavour to the expanded schedule. The Queens Cup will be awarded for the best aggregate score across the two Thailand regattas, while the Royal Cup honours the top European performer across the three continental events.
