Rolex Middle Sea Race 2019 – Preview

The Rolex Middle Sea Race, one of a number of 600 nautical mile bluewater classics Rolex has supported since the early 2000s, celebrates its 40th edition in 2019. Organised by the Royal Malta Yacht Club, the start is set for Saturday 19 October from Valletta’s Grand Harbour. An international fleet in excess of 100 yachts will grace this popular and demanding offshore race which takes in some of the Mediterranean’s most dramatic scenery including two active volcanoes and scores of rugged islands. The quest for overall race victory and the pursuit for line honours are always compelling facets of a race which continues to draw significant participation from both professional and Corinthian crews. Rolex has supported offshore racing for over half a century and its commitment to this element of the sport, through partnerships with races of the calibre of the Rolex Middle Sea Race, is both long-standing and forward-looking.
Rolex has always associated with activities driven by passion, excellence, precision and team spirit. It naturally gravitated towards the elite world of yachting six decades ago and today supports the most prestigious clubs, races and regattas. The brand is Title Sponsor of 15 major international events – from leading offshore races, such as the annual Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race and the biennial Rolex Fastnet Race, to grand prix competition at the Rolex TP52 World Championship and spectacular gatherings at the Maxi Yacht Rolex Cup and the Rolex Swan Cup. It also supports the exciting new SailGP series, where national teams race in supercharged F50 catamarans on some of the world’s most famous harbours. Rolex’s partnerships with the likes of the Cruising Yacht Club of Australia, Yacht Club Costa Smeralda, Royal Ocean Racing Club, New York Yacht Club and Royal Yacht Squadron are the foundation of its enduring relationship with this dynamic sport.