The 42nd edition of the Copa del Rey MAPFRE has already begun, transforming the bay of Palma into a meeting point for sailors from all over the world. With the participation of more than 120 teams from 23 countries, this event is a true demonstration of the commitment to sustainability, community and the sport of sailing.
Official Inauguration
The official presentation took place in the Sala Magna of the Real Club Náutico de Palma (RCNP), where numerous authorities and personalities gathered. Among the attendees were Rafael Gil, president of the RCNP; Jorge Forteza, commodore of the club; María del Carmen Sales, territorial director of MAPFRE in the Balearic Islands; and several local authorities, such as the deputy mayor of Palma, Belén Soto Mateu, and the Minister of Tourism, Culture and Sports of the Government of the Balearic Islands, Jaume Bauzá.
Manu Fraga, director of the regatta, opened the presentation by highlighting the importance and excitement of this edition. “With more than 120 teams representing 23 nationalities, our waters will become a true melting pot of cultures and talents,” Fraga said. He also highlighted the effort to promote sustainability at the event, an initiative supported by MAPFRE.
Participation and Social Program
The Copa del Rey MAPFRE is not only a sailing competition, but also a great social party. Fraga highlighted the variety of activities planned for all tastes, culminating with the awards ceremony on August 3 at Ses Voltes, in the presence of King Felipe.
Rafael Gil thanked MAPFRE and the 39 collaborating companies for their continued support, highlighting the hard work and dedication of the nearly 350 people involved in organizing the event. “We are proud to have given shape and impetus to an event that today is recognized and respected worldwide,” he said.
For her part, María del Carmen Sales spoke about MAPFRE’s relationship with the Copa del Rey, emphasizing the shared values of effort, companionship and teamwork. “Supporting the Copa del Rey is another example of MAPFRE’s commitment to the Balearic Islands, a very important community for us,” said Sales.
The Competition
The competition will begin on Monday, July 29, with the official training regattas. The tests will be held from July 30 to August 3, in eight different classes. Four of them will compete in real time: ClubSwan 50, ClubSwan 42, Sandberg Estates J70 and the women’s Women’s Cup. The other four will race on corrected time: Watches of Switzerland ORC 0, ODILO ORC 1, Altavista ORC 2 and Balearia ORC 3.
Impact and Sustainability
The Copa del Rey MAPFRE is not only a sporting event, but also an economic and cultural engine for Palma de Mallorca. The city sees a significant increase in tourist and commercial activity during the week of the event, benefiting hotels, restaurants and local businesses.
In addition, the regatta reaffirms its commitment to sustainability. The organizers have implemented measures to minimize environmental impact by promoting responsible boating practices and reducing the use of non-recyclable materials. Awareness campaigns are also conducted to protect the marine environment.
Conclusion
The 42nd Copa del Rey MAPFRE promises to be a memorable edition, full of exciting competition and social activities. With a strong focus on sustainability and international participation, this event continues to establish itself as one of the most prestigious on the sailing calendar. The bay of Palma will witness days full of action and camaraderie, celebrating the spirit of sport and community.
Source: Communication Office of the Copa del Rey Mapfre
Images: Villegas Photo
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