J/80 World Championship 2025: competitive sailing and youth development at sea

From 5 to 11 July, the Belgian coast was the setting for a week of sporting competition, international encounters and unforgettable moments on and off the water. With 59 boats competing from across the globe, the J/80 World Championship was an event of real scale. As proud main sponsor, CFP Green Buildings looks back on a week that celebrated not only competitive sailing, but also connection, young talent and the future.

Where the sea sets the pace

The championship began with a lesson in patience. On Monday, strong northerly winds and heavy swell kept the boats moored. But while the sea waited, the energy in the Race Village continued to grow. The atmosphere remained relaxed and hopeful. Everyone knew: tomorrow, we sail.

And so they did. From Tuesday onwards, the racing truly began. The North Sea was restless and demanding, with waves over a metre high and unpredictable gusts. The teams faced the conditions with determination, creativity and teamwork. Seasickness, delayed starts and long hours on the water were balanced by tight mark roundings and hard-fought finishes. And each time, they returned to shore exhausted, but full of stories.

Sunshine, celebration and youth in the spotlight

Wednesday brought a change in pace: sunshine, a gentle breeze and a Race Village full of summer spirit. Although the afternoon wind faded and fewer races were sailed, the day ended in style with an evening of music, dancing and surprises. During the fun prize giving, the youngest sailor in the championship was celebrated: a 12-year-old girl who would later go on to win the event.

A fair wind for female sailing talent

Thursday became the longest day at sea. For over eight hours, teams remained focused, driven and upbeat – even when the final race didn’t start until after 18:00. That evening, the applause returned to the Race Village, this time to celebrate the strength of female sailors. Teams with the highest number of female helms and crew were recognised during the prize giving ceremony. “Sailing is one of the few sports where men and women truly compete side by side. Today, we wanted to shine an extra spotlight on the women who steer, lead and inspire – and that’s something to be proud of.”

A thrilling finale on Friday

The final three races were sailed on Friday under a bright summer sun. The light winds made for highly technical and strategic racing, and the tension on the finish line was real. As the last sails were packed away, the final results came in.

Final results – who claimed the world title?

🥇 1st place: Eurofrits Aviko & Newind Foods (Spain)
🥈 2nd place: DentaLIAssist (France)
🥉 3rd place: DORSIA SAILING TEAM (Spain)

CFP Green Buildings was also actively on the water: Bram Adema, CEO of CFP, took the helm himself and finished as the highest-ranked Dutch team in 21st place – a strong effort in a highly competitive international field.

More than sport

CFP Green Buildings proudly looks back on a week where sport and meaningful moments went hand in hand. As main sponsor, we are especially proud of the CFP Youth Fund and the connecting spirit of this event. From young sailing talent to seasoned professionals. The J/80 World Championship in Nieuwpoort once again proved that the true power of sport lies not only in winning, but in the experience we share.

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Fancy experiencing a real sailing competition yourself? Join us at the annual CFP Green Buildings Regatta!