Mauro Pelaschier, Ambassador of Imperia Sailing Week 2026
There are names in Italian sailing that represent far more than an impressive list of achievements. They evoke images of legendary races, challenging starts, long nights at sea, crews gathered in silence before the starting signal, and yachts that have become part of a nation’s sporting heritage.
Mauro Pelaschier is one of those names.
He will serve as the official Ambassador of Imperia Sailing Week 2026, the event that, from 28 August to 6 September, will bring together the timeless elegance of classic yachts and the excitement of world-class sailing in the city of Imperia.
Celebrating the 40th Anniversary of the event, Imperia Sailing Week 2026 combines two complementary moments united by the same passion for the sea. From 29 August to 1 September, the spotlight will be on the 12mR World Championship, dedicated to the legendary 12 Metre International Rule yachts. From 2 to 5 September, the historic Vele d’Epoca Regatta will take centre stage, continuing the tradition that has established Imperia as one of the Mediterranean’s leading destinations for classic yachting.
A sailing legend for the 40th Anniversary
Forty years after the first edition of the historic gathering, Imperia welcomes one of the most respected voices in international sailing—a figure capable of inspiring sailors, enthusiasts, the media and those discovering the sea for the very first time.
From Olympic competition to the helm of Azzurra, and from the America’s Cup to some of the world’s most prestigious international regattas, Mauro Pelaschier has helped shape the history of Italian sailing. His presence brings not only extraordinary experience but also the rare opportunity to hear first-hand stories from someone who has lived some of sailing’s greatest moments.
From the Olympic Games to Azzurra
Born in Monfalcone in 1949 into a family deeply connected to sailing, Mauro Pelaschier developed his racing career in the demanding Finn class, renowned for producing sailors with exceptional technical skill and tactical awareness.
He represented Italy at the 1972 Munich Olympic Games and the 1976 Montreal Olympic Games, establishing himself among the country’s leading sailors.
His name became part of Italian sporting history in 1983, when he helmed Azzurra, the first Italian challenger to compete for the America’s Cup, representing the Yacht Club Costa Smeralda in Newport.
Under Pelaschier’s leadership, Azzurra achieved 24 victories in 49 races during the Louis Vuitton Cup, finishing an outstanding third overall. That first Italian America’s Cup campaign captured the imagination of an entire nation and marked a turning point in the popularity of sailing in Italy.
His career continued with numerous victories and podium finishes across a wide range of prestigious competitions, including the Giro d’Italia a Vela, the Maxi World Cup, and the famous Barcolana.
A lifelong commitment to the sea
Those who spend their lives at sea understand that it is far more than a place for competition. It is a fragile environment that deserves respect, protection and care.
Over the years, Pelaschier has transformed his love of the sea into a concrete commitment to environmental conservation, promoting awareness initiatives aimed at both the sailing community and the general public.
In 2018, he completed a circumnavigation of Italy as Ambassador of the One Ocean Foundation, promoting the protection of marine ecosystems and raising awareness of the Charta Smeralda, the international code of ethics dedicated to safeguarding the oceans.
His environmental commitment was recognised in 2019, when he was appointed Commander of the Order of Merit of the Italian Republic, one of Italy’s highest civilian honours, for his contribution to promoting respect for and protection of the marine environment.
These values closely reflect the spirit of Imperia Sailing Week: celebrating the history of sailing and the beauty of the sea while recognising the responsibility to preserve it for future generations.
Pelaschier’s presence therefore adds an important dimension to the event, bringing together sporting heritage, maritime culture and a forward-looking vision for the future of our oceans.
A unique voice to tell the story of the sea
Throughout Imperia Sailing Week 2026, Mauro Pelaschier will meet visitors and share stories from a lifetime spent at the highest level of competitive sailing.
From the Olympic Games to the America’s Cup, his experiences span some of the most remarkable chapters in modern sailing history.
He will bring memories, encounters, challenges and unforgettable moments from a career that has left an enduring mark on Italian sailing, offering visitors a unique opportunity to discover the culture, passion and values that make the sea such an extraordinary place.
His presence is an invitation to experience Imperia Sailing Week not only as a sporting event, but as a celebration of maritime heritage, history and the enduring spirit of sailing.
