International Optimist Dinghy Association
News 2026 Optimist European Championship
2026 Optimist European Championship
2026 Optimist European Championship Concludes in Gdynia, Poland
Gdynia, Poland — 31 July 2026 — The 2026 Optimist European Championship concluded in Gdynia, Poland, after a memorable week of racing from 24 to 31 July.
The Championship was organised by the Polish Yachting Association, in cooperation with Marina Gdynia, and brought together 292 sailors across the Boys and Girls fleets, with competitors representing Europe and nations from around the world.
Gdynia once again proved to be an outstanding host city for international youth sailing, offering strong racing, excellent organisation, and a welcoming atmosphere for sailors, coaches, families, officials, volunteers, and supporters.
On the water, Nikolaos Pappas of Greece delivered a commanding performance to become the 2026 Optimist Boys European Champion, finishing first overall with a net score of 23 points. Pappas, who was crowned Optimist World Champion in 2025, added the European title to his achievements with an impressive and consistent performance in Gdynia.
The Boys podium was completed by Giorgio Nibbi of Italy, who finished second with 39 points, and Lucas Garrido of Spain, who finished third with 48 points.
In the Girls fleet, Maria De Lluc Bestard of Spain claimed the 2026 Optimist Girls European Championship title, finishing first overall with a net score of 22 points. With this victory, Bestard became a double European Champion, successfully defending the title she won the previous year.
The Girls podium was completed by Ada Vera Tüfekçiler of Türkiye, second with 37 points, and Morgan Rosenthal of the United States, third overall with 43 points. Among the European sailors, Barbara Gmurek of Poland followed in fourth overall with 55 points, delivering a strong performance for the host nation.
Spain also claimed the Top Nations Cup, finishing first with 15 points, ahead of Türkiye in second with 26 points and Italy in third with 38 points. Spain’s winning team score was achieved through the performances of Lucas Garrido, Jan Palou, Maria De Lluc Bestard, and Ines Rodado.
Tomasz Chamera, World Sailing Vice-President, praised the organisers and participants:
“I would like to extend my warm congratulations to all those who made the 2026 Optimist European Championship in Gdynia such a remarkable event. My sincere appreciation goes to IODA, the City of Gdynia, the Ministry of Sport and Tourism, the organising team, volunteers, race officials, partners and sponsors, whose dedication delivered a championship of the highest standard.
The passion, talent and determination shown by these young athletes reflect the continued growth of sailing and our collective efforts to make the sport more accessible, inclusive and universal around the world.”
Carmen Casco-Canepa, IODA Vice-President Europe, highlighted the spirit of the Championship:
“To all our young sailors: you are the heart of this championship. Each of you has worked hard to earn your place here, and you should already be proud of what you have achieved.
This championship is about much more than racing for medals. It is about friendship, respect, learning from one another, and enjoying every moment on the water. Sail with courage, compete with fairness, and enjoy this unforgettable experience in Gdynia.”
The 2026 Optimist European Championship will be remembered not only for the excellence of its champions, but also for the strength of the international Optimist community and the continued development of young sailors through fair competition, friendship, and shared passion for the sport.
About the International Optimist Dinghy Association
The International Optimist Dinghy Association is the international class association responsible for the Optimist dinghy, one of the world’s leading youth sailing classes. IODA works with its members around the world to promote fair competition, friendship, education, and the development of young sailors through international events, class rules, and global cooperation.
