Thank to Tom Werff for the report: The Irish team Headcase has triumphed at the 2025 J/24 European Championship, held in Wemeldinge, the Netherlands—securing their third consecutive European title. Dutch team Jack Around, led by Rutger Krijger, earned the silver medal, while German team Schwere Jungs, helmed by Stefan Karsunke, took bronze. The Championship took place from July 7-12. Day one focused on technical inspections of boats and sails. On day two, final checks were completed, followed by a skippers’ briefing led by the organizing committee and race officials. On Tuesday at 14:00, a practice race was held—an ideal warm-up that allowed teams to navigate the strong currents of the Oosterschelde and familiarize themselves with the racecourse. The event was officially opened later that evening at 18:00 by the chair of the Dutch J/24 Class Association. The 2025 edition of the Europeans centered around cross-generational connection, learning, and of course, the competition for victory. On Wednesday, July 9, the starting vessel left port as scheduled, followed closely by all 20 teams. Due to unstable wind conditions, the AP flag was briefly raised, but once the breeze stabilized, four races were sailed under ideal weather. Headcase dominated the day with four first-place finishes, showcasing their mastery of tidal sailing. Jack Around delivered a strong performance to secure second place, and reigning German champion Hungriger Wolf finished the day in third. The long day on the water concluded with a festive dinner featuring Premier mussels and live music. Thursday began with the AP flag hoisted again, anticipating a repeat of Tuesday’s light conditions. Fortunately, the seabreeze filled in around 13:00, allowing two more races from 14:00 onward. Headcase extended their lead, while Jack Around slipped to fourth overall. Schwere Jungs moved past Hungriger Wolf to claim third position in the standings. Forecasts throughout the week were encouraging, with consistent afternoon breezes from the northwest and occasional shifts to the west. International teams praised the venue and conditions, calling the sailing area beautiful and suitably challenging for a European Championship. Friday began with the AP flag raised, delaying the teams’ departure until around 12:30. Four races were sailed that day. After completing a total of 10 races, only two more were scheduled for Saturday which ultimately became two and a half. The penultimate race was abandoned by the Race Committee due to a significant wind shift. Finally, at around 13:30, the very last race of the event was held.
Photo gallery: 2025 J24 European Championship – hlavooij & Media – J/24 Klasse organisatie Nederland
Video highlights: J24 European Championship 2025, The Netherlands
Results: European Championship J/24 2025 manage2sail
Stuart Jardine Trophy for Youngest European Championship sailor 2025: Harry Mills (GBR 4242 Team Hitchhiker)
Youngest J/24 sailing team EC 2025: GER 3634 Fast Forward
Oldest J/24 EC 2025: (NED 285 Team J van Tegenwoordig)