President of the Republic Cup – Vela al Terzo Regatta
The traditional Venetian boat race in St. Mark's Basin
About President's Cup
The Vela al Terzo Regatta
The President of the Republic Cup is the symbolic regatta of vela al terzo, the ancient sailing technique of the traditional boats of the Venice lagoon. Every September, the historic boats gather in the St. Mark's Basin, the stretch of water in front of the Doge's Palace, for a competition that is both a sporting challenge and a celebration of Venetian maritime culture.
A Unique Setting
The colourful vela al terzo sails gliding across St. Mark's Basin, with the bell tower, basilica, and Doge's Palace in the background, create one of the most spectacular images of lagoon tradition. The regatta draws enthusiasts and onlookers to the banks, for a festive day dedicated to the sea and historic boats.
A Tradition to Preserve
The event is organised by the Vela al Terzo Venezia Association, which brings together an extraordinary fleet of over 150 active traditional boats. The Cup, a prestigious silver trophy donated by former President Ciampi, links the event to the highest state institution and highlights its cultural value.
Venice and Rowing
Promoted in Venice (VE), in Veneto, the regatta helps to pass down the art of rowing and sailing typical of the lagoon, an intangible heritage that is part of the city's very identity.
President's Cup — edition 2026
The 2026 edition of the President of the Republic Cup, scheduled for Sunday, September 13, in the St. Mark's Basin, has a special significance: the traditional vela al terzo boats are paired with articles of the Italian Constitution, displayed visibly under the boom next to the sail number.
The 25th edition features 139 vessels, a symbolic number recalling the 139 articles of the Constitution. The prestigious silver cup donated by former President Carlo Azeglio Ciampi is up for grabs. The organisers of the Vela al Terzo Venezia Association have worked to give maximum prestige to the event, in contact with the Quirinale for the potential presence of President Mattarella.
Programme President's Cup 2026
Sunday, September 13, 2026 — St. Mark's Basin
- Vela al terzo regatta with traditional Venetian boats
- 25th edition with 139 vessels, a number recalling the 139 articles of the Constitution
- Each boat displays an article of the Italian Constitution under the boom
- The silver cup donated by former President Ciampi is up for grabs
- Awards ceremony and closing ceremony
Free event, visible from the banks of St. Mark's Basin. Info at velaalterzo.com.
Highlights President's Cup 2026
Prices President's Cup 2026
Practical information — President's Cup
How to get there
Venice is reachable by train to Santa Lucia station, by car to Piazzale Roma or Tronchetto, or by plane from Marco Polo Airport. The regatta can be viewed from the banks of St. Mark's Basin, from Riva degli Schiavoni and Punta della Dogana.
Where and When
St. Mark's Basin, Venice (VE), in September.
Admission
Free event, visible from the banks. Info at velaalterzo.com.
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Where does it take place — President's Cup
Bacino di San Marco
Bacino di San Marco, 30124 Venezia