The 2025 Rolex Middle Sea Race concluded in spectacular fashion as the 100‑foot maxi Black Jack 100 claimed line honours, crossing the finish line at 05:45 CEST in Valletta. The victory was particularly sweet for owner Remon Vos and skipper Tristan Le Brun, who narrowly missed the top spot last year.
As quoted by the Royal Malta Yacht Club, Vos shared that “Winning line honours at the Rolex Middle Sea Race is very special. It’s a big race … a significant achievement for the team, and for the boat.” Le Brun added: “For all of us, as a team, it was the first time with Black Jack and we are extremely proud of it.”
Despite a less crowded field of rival maxis, the achievement was significant. Black Jack featured a newly formed crew and underwent major winter modifications, including her striking jet‑black livery. Le Brun described the race as a test of skill and endurance: “This boat is highly complex, and to complete the course with 100% success was a triumph. We faced heavy rain on the first night, challenging winds north of Sicily, and very light airs on the way south. At times, we had crew up the rig to find the wind, keeping us ahead of Balthasar, who finished not far behind.”
The runner-up, Balthasar, a slightly smaller maxi, kept Black Jack under pressure from the start. Veteran tactician Bouwe Bekking led the crew through a challenging course, navigating torrential rain and constant wind shifts. “The first 12 hours were brutal — poor visibility and wet gear — but we stayed patient and kept the boat moving,” Bekking reflected.
For the Black Jack team, the race was also about moments of beauty and awe. Vos recalled: “The turn at Lampedusa was special. We were downwind doing 17‑18 knots under a sky full of stars.” Le Brun added: “We enjoyed stunning sunrises and sunsets, and saw turtles and dolphins swimming alongside the boat.”
Elsewhere in the fleet, the multihull Allegra and other class leaders completed strong campaigns, making for a thrilling overall event. The Royal Malta Yacht Club once again provided a fitting backdrop, welcoming sailors home and celebrating one of the Mediterranean’s most iconic offshore races.
