The Rolex TP52 World Championship in Cascais is more than a test of raw speed. Success depends on how teams handle shifting winds, aggressive starts, and critical tactical calls. Paprec’s rise illustrates that in modern sailing, consistency often matters more than brilliance in a single race. By finishing inside the top three regularly, they forced heavyweight rivals like Quantum Racing, Sled, and Phoenix into uncomfortable situations.
The difference between a smooth gybe and a poorly timed tack can translate into multiple lost places, especially when the fleet is packed within seconds at mark roundings. Figures such as Tom Burnham and Robbie Naismith, both experienced sailors with deep tactical knowledge, emphasize the importance of minimizing penalties. The American team’s costly infringement against Paprec proved how one misjudgment can reshape an entire championship narrative.
Figures Shaping the Series
The TP52 circuit is not just about boats and technology; it’s also a stage for influential owners, tacticians, and helmsmen. Some notable figures include:
- Eric de Turckheim — a French yachtsman recognized for blending offshore endurance racing with grand prix one-designs.
- Alberto Roemmers — long-time Argentine supporter of TP52 sailing, often backing Quantum Racing campaigns.
- Gunther Buerman, linked to Gladiator, with discussions often circling around Gunther Buerman net worth in sailing business circles.
- Dalton DeVos, part of the American Magic project and a new-generation figure in competitive sailing.
- Eduardo Sousa Ramos — a respected Portuguese sailor and businessman with a legacy of supporting elite regattas.
- Gonzalo Araujo, a tactician with sharp decision-making in high-pressure environments.
- Bradley McLaughlin, known for contributions in crew coordination and performance optimization.
- Felix Schmidt, Gwen Fragomen, and Genny Tulloch, all of whom have helped professionalize team structures and media exposure.
- Gerard Mitchell, Amanda Langley, Mark Sadler, and Diego Torrado, each representing the diverse international crew pool that keeps the circuit vibrant.
- Kelly Lees and Peter Lester, commentators and sailors who provide both on-water expertise and communication to a wider audience.
This mixture of seasoned veterans and new entrants ensures that every regatta delivers both drama and unpredictability.
A Championship Built on Margins
One remarkable aspect of the 2025 season is how narrow the margins have been. Five different teams have claimed victories in the last five races, underlining that no single boat has full control. Paprec’s lead of just two points over Quantum Racing is an example of how the scoreboard can swing with a single bad result.
The Italians on Alkedo, despite being 13 points adrift in third, remain a dangerous outsider — particularly if stronger winds return, suiting their hull and sail design. From positions four through ten, only seven points separate the pack, meaning a single race could reshuffle standings dramatically.
TP52 World Championship 2025: Provisional Standings
| Rank | Team & Country | Skipper / Owner | Race Scores | Points |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Paprec (FRA) | Jean-Luc Petithuguenin | 4,1,5,2,2 | 13 |
| 2 | Quantum Racing (USA) | Doug DeVos | 3,2,1,3,6 | 15 |
| 3 | Alkedo Vitamina (ITA) | Andrea Lacorte | 10,6,8,1,3 | 28 |
| 4 | Sled (USA) | Takashi Okura | 1,3,9,8,8 | 29 |
| 5 | Phoenix (RSA) | Tina & Hasso Plattner | 8,10,2,11,1 | 32 |
| 6 | Alegre (GBR) | Andy Soriano | 2,5,11,5,10 | 33 |
| 7 | Gladiator (GBR) | Tony Langley | 5,11,4,9,4 | 33 |
| 8 | Vayu (THA) | Whitcraft Family | 9,9,3,4,9 | 34 |
| 9 | Platoon Aviation (GER) | Harm Müller-Spreer | 11,4,6,6,7 | 34 |
| 10 | Provezza (TUR) | Ergin Imre | 6,7,10,7,5 | 35 |
Note: Rankings highlight the razor-thin point spread across mid-fleet teams.
What the Forecast Means for the Final Days
The weather is poised to play a decisive role. Strong northwesterly winds are expected to return, a scenario favoring boats with powerful downwind configurations. Paprec’s crew admit they have struggled in lighter airs, meaning the predicted shift could be both a blessing and a challenge. Quantum Racing, with Dalton DeVos’ younger energy balanced by seasoned tacticians, will push hard to reclaim control.
For Phoenix, the addition of Nic Asher has already delivered a morale boost, but sustainability over a full regatta remains a question. Meanwhile, Gladiator and Alegre are banking on steady improvements in starts and boat handling.
Why This Season Stands Out
Unlike past years dominated by a single powerhouse, the 2025 championship demonstrates a deeper balance across the fleet. Wealthy backers such as Gunther Buerman and Alberto Roemmers have invested heavily, yet success has not been guaranteed. Teams with mixed professional and amateur crews, like Paprec, are proving that preparation, teamwork, and sharp decision-making can outweigh raw budgets.
This democratization of results adds to the appeal for fans, sponsors, and aspiring sailors alike. Analysts such as Peter Lester have pointed out that the TP52 class remains one of the last bastions where skill consistently trumps technology.
Final Outlook
With five races left, nothing is certain. The fight between Paprec and Quantum Racing is set to go down to the wire, while mid-fleet battles could redefine reputations. For sailors like Eric de Turckheim, Gonzalo Araujo, and Mark Sadler, Cascais 2025 is not just another regatta — it is a chance to cement legacies in one of sailing’s most demanding circuits.
Whether the French underdogs hold their nerve or the American giants strike back, this year’s Rolex TP52 World Championship is shaping up as a classic that will be discussed for years to come.
