Khumbu Racing dominates the 2026 Round Ireland Race, claiming both line honours and the overall IRC victory

Dario D'Atri
5 hours ago
2 min read

Crossing the finish line off Wicklow at 09:26:45, Khumbu confirms a commanding performance after six days of complex and unstable conditions around the Irish coast. The result cements the Botin Partners-designed 56-footer as one of the standout IRC performers on the international circuit.

With a length overall of 17.1 metres, a 4.7-metre beam and a displacement of 8,800 kilograms, Khumbu combines refined naval architecture with race-proven efficiency. Built for precision and sustained offshore speed, the yacht is demonstrating its full potential in a race defined by shifting winds and constant tactical pressure.

This latest victory adds to an already strong record, following a second place overall in IRC at the 2023 RORC Transatlantic Race. In Ireland, Khumbu has not only set the pace on the water but is also delivering where it matters most—on corrected time.

The Round Ireland Race, first held in 1980 and now a cornerstone of the Royal Ocean Racing Club calendar, continues to test both boats and crews at the highest level.

Jack Wetherell, trimmer of Khumbu said “It was a race of many momentum swings, ebbing and flowing back and forth almost constantly due to the very trying conditions. Long periods of light winds and tough decisions for all boats out there. We had our tough moments during day 1 and the first evening but after that our crew did an awesome job of positioning the boat and really allowing her to perform and capitalise on the wind we found by heading far offshore. Ireland provided some stunning sights. Next up for Khumbu is Round The Island, the Royal Thames pre cowes week event, and cowes week!”