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Paul Cayard clinches Star World Champion title at Split

  • 13 September 2025
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It was the most spectacular of finales at the Star World Championship 2025 held 6-13 September in Split (Croatia). After six intense races, YCM member Paul Cayard sailing with German Frithjof Kleen claimed the world title in a contest that went down to the wire in the last race.

A thrilling final

Against a 101-strong fleet representing the world’s elite in this class, Cayard and Kleen had to fight to the bitter end. During the last race they were in 14th at the first mark, a critical situation as their nearest rivals, Negri/Lambertenghi, Doyle/Infelise and Kusznierewicz/Prada, were in the vanguard. But after a methodical come-back and perfect reading of the water, they crossed the finish in 7th which was enough to maintain a three-point lead and clinch the world title.

A historic victory

For Paul Cayard, it is his second Star world title, 37 years after his first and he could not hide his emotions: “It is hard to describe how I feel. Honestly, I can’t believe it. We made things difficult for ourselves but we stayed focused as a pair in difficult moments. Every team had its challenges to overcome, as did we, but we came back by sailing intelligently and trusting each other. To win it again, 37 years after my first title is surreal. I’ve had a long career marked by the America’s Cup and round the world races but the Star has always been the common thread. To win this championship again is incredibly special”. A rare feat that adds to the exceptional record of this sailor.
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