Kiel, July 8, 2025
From July 11 to 13, 2025, the international sailing community will turn its attention to Kiel’s inner fjord. At the grand final of the SAILING Champions League, the world’s best club teams will go head-to-head — a top-tier event in the heart of Kiel, a city steeped in sailing tradition. The elegant Hotel Kieler Yacht-Club will serve as host, offering direct access to the water and a maritime atmosphere — ideal conditions for three days of high-level competition.
A total of 33 clubs from 17 nations have qualified for this year’s final — a remarkable cross-section of the European and global club sailing scene. Teams from Denmark, Norway, the United Kingdom, France, Poland, Finland, Switzerland, Sweden, and Germany will compete alongside participants from overseas, including Australia, the USA, and New Caledonia. The format remains the tried-and-tested league system, sailed in identical boats, with short, intense races right in front of the yacht club — fast-paced, spectator-friendly, and thrilling to watch.
Particular attention this year is drawn to the field of participants itself. Many skippers and crew members bring impressive achievements with them to Kiel — a true “clash of champions.” Among them is Germany’s Tobias Schadewaldt (Norddeutscher Regatta Verein), one of the most experienced sailors in the lineup. A former Olympian in the 49er class, multiple German champion, and multi-time winner of the German Sailing Bundesliga, Schadewaldt stands as a symbol of consistency and club-level excellence.
Michael Meister (SCTWV Achensee) is another strong contender, traveling from Austria. The two-time runner-up in the Austrian Sailing League secured 5th place at the SCL Qualifier in St. Moritz and is considered part of the extended favorites. From the UK, Dom Lewis (Royal Thames Yacht Club) brings fresh momentum: crowned British team racing national champion in 2025 and a two-time winner of the British Keelboat League, Lewis has his sights set firmly on Kiel: “Winning.” When asked what the SAILING Champions League means to him, his answer is clear and heartfelt: “It means everything to me.”
Switzerland is represented by Mahé Ratte (Yacht Club Bielersee), who already made her mark with a second-place finish at the Swiss Moth Nationals in 2016. Meanwhile, Maxime Ezeque (Cercle Nautique Calédonien) leads a French-Pacific team with experience from the Tour de France à la Voile, J/80 Nationals, and other major regattas.
A strong signal also comes from Yacht Club Sopot (Poland), helmed by Tytus Butowski. At just 23, he is already one of Poland’s most accomplished young sailors, having collected numerous international titles — including Optimist European Champion (2013), bronze at the ISAF Youth Worlds in Laser Radial (2019), the U21 World Championship title in the 49er (2021), and bronze at the U23 European Championship that same year.
Another much-anticipated storyline is the return of Tønsberg Seilforening from Norway — the reigning SAILING Champions League champions from 2024. Once again, the Norwegian crew ranks among the top favorites for the title.
Whether seasoned sailors or rising stars — the depth of talent in this year’s lineup promises thrilling races and tight battles on the water. Spectators can look forward to world-class sailing action up close. All races will be streamed live and made available via GPS tracking. Admission for on-site visitors is free of charge.
