Eric Monnin wins 60th Congressional Cup, defeats Chris Poole in final

Switzerland’s Eric Monnin and his Capvis Swiss Match Racing Team clinched their first victory at the 60th Anniversary Long Beach Yacht Club Congressional Cup, defeating two-time defending champion Chris Poole of the United States in a closely contested best-of-five final. The regatta, a key event on the World Match Racing Tour, saw Monnin overcome an early deficit and a starting penalty in the deciding race, ultimately capitalizing on a penalty by Poole to secure the win. This marks Monnin’s first Congressional Cup triumph in 11 attempts, ending Poole’s bid for a historic third consecutive title. The event featured strong international competition, with Australia’s Cole Tapper capturing third place after edging out USA’s Dave Hood in the semifinals. The Congressional Cup, renowned for its high-stakes match racing and the coveted Crimson Blazer, continues to serve as a cornerstone for the sport, drawing top talent from around the world. Monnin’s victory also shifts his team from perennial challengers to defending champions in future editions.