The 2025 Admiral’s Cup inshore series roared into life with a dramatic double-header in the Solent on the first of three days of inshore racing on Tuesday 22 July. Under a shifty breeze ranging from 16 to 22 knots, the fleet delivered two high-intensity races, one short and tactical, the other a demanding round-the-cans challenge finishing off the Royal Yacht Squadron in Cowes.
With podium places decided by seconds, torn sails, and relentless pressure across the course, this was inshore yacht racing at its fiercest. In AC1, Black Pearl and Jolt 3 went blow-for-blow, while Django WR51 and Zen pushed hard to stay in the hunt. In AC2, Callisto shone with two bullets, fending off strong challenges from Beau Ideal, Baraka GP and AMP-lifi in nail-biting finishes.
It was a day of comebacks, boat-on-boat duels, and critical decisions - proof that every tack counts at the Admiral’s Cup.