Rolex Fastnet Race

The Rolex Fastnet Race is a biennial offshore yacht race established in 1925. The Royal Ocean Racing Club organizes the event, receiving assistance from the Royal Yacht Squadron in Cowes and the city of Cherbourg-en-Cotentin.

The event takes its name from the Fastnet Rock, which the course rounds. This race serves as a test of offshore skill and has contributed to developments in yacht design, sailing technique, and safety equipment since the inception of the race.

Rolex has provided sponsorship for the race since 2001. The competition centers on monohull handicap racing under the IRC Rating Rule. The RORC Rating Office in Lymington and the UNCL and YCF Race Pole in Paris administer these rules.

The Fastnet Challenge Cup is awarded to the overall winner after IRC time correction. The race also accommodates multihulls and provides one-design starts for classes including IMOCA and Class40.