Siracusa delivers an unforgettable night: Aeronautica Militare triumphs after 60 hours at sea as Inshore racing thrills spectators

Siracusa hosted one of the most demanding and exciting stages of the 2026 Giro d’Italia a Vela, the flagship event of the Marina Militare Nastro Rosa Tour. After more than 60 hours of racing through light breezes, prolonged calms and constantly changing conditions, the Figaro 3 fleet finally reached the Sicilian harbour following an offshore challenge that tested the crews’ endurance, tactical skills and determination.
The weather repeatedly reshaped the race, forcing sailors into continuous tactical adjustments and lengthy upwind legs. The first boat crossed the finish line at midnight, while the final competitors arrived only at dawn after an exhausting two-and-a-half-day passage. For most of the race, Aeronautica Militare’s Giovanni Bannetta and Niccolò Bertola led the fleet with confidence. However, a piece of plastic caught on the keel suddenly slowed their boat, allowing their rivals to close the gap and briefly move ahead. Once the obstruction was removed, the pair quickly regained their pace, reclaimed the lead and secured overall victory. Marina Militare’s Andrea Trani and Andrea Pendibene sailed a composed and consistent race to earn a well-deserved second place, expertly managing the difficult conditions throughout the course. Third place went to Leonardo Nesi and Mattia Maviglia of Circolo Nautico Sambenedettese, whose impressive performance even saw them challenge for the lead during the decisive stages of the race.
A special mention also goes to Guardia di Finanza’s Marco Gallo and Filippo Baldassari. After losing as much as 25 nautical miles due to an unfavourable weather decision, they mounted a remarkable comeback and fought their way back to an impressive sixth-place finish. Following the offshore arrival, attention shifted to the Inshore competitions held just off Siracusa’s waterfront. With a steady 11-knot breeze creating ideal conditions, the Waszp and WingFoil athletes delivered fast-paced and spectacular racing for the crowds gathered along the shoreline.
Alex Jones of Flushing Sailing Club claimed victory in the Waszp class, while Riccardo Bevilacqua secured another important win for Aeronautica Militare in the WingFoil competition. Their breathtaking foil-powered performances provided a fitting conclusion to a day that perfectly combined endurance, tactical sailing and high-speed excitement, once again showcasing the unique spirit of the Marina Militare Nastro Rosa Tour.