Maxi Class: 45 Years of Excellence History often repeats itself! Founded in Geneva in 1979 at the initiative of five owners including Edmond de Rothschild (whose eponymous House is a partner of Les Voiles de Saint-Tropez), the International Maxi Association (originally ICAYA – International Class Yacht Association until 2001) has governed these exceptional boats for 45 years. The Nioulargue quickly gave the Maxis.
Maxi Class: 45 Years of Excellence History often repeats itself! Founded in Geneva in 1979 at the initiative of five owners including Edmond de Rothschild (whose eponymous House is a partner of Les Voiles de Saint-Tropez), the International Maxi Association (originally ICAYA – International Class Yacht Association until 2001) has governed these exceptional boats for 45 years. The Nioulargue quickly gave the Maxis the place they deserved, and by 1983, the class wasincluded in the Saint-Tropez race programme. It remains the first and only Maxi regatta in France and marked a golden era for legendary yachts like Coriolan, Helisara, and Gitana. A class for owner-helmsmen, the IMA now includes over 60 yachts longer than 60 feet. When not cruising offshore, they come together to race in a five-event circuit – the IMA Mediterranean Maxi Inshore Challenge – of which Les Voiles de Saint-Tropez is a highlight and a major year-end gathering. Chaired by Benoit de Froidmont, the IMA aims to harmonize events open or reserved for Maxis, including regulations, race formats, and hospitality – helping retain current owners and attract new ones.
On the Partners’ Side: Edmond de Rothschild joins the Carré des Voiles After previously partnering with this iconic event, Edmond de Rothschild is renewing its support for Les Voiles de Saint-Tropez for a three-year period. “My family’s history is deeply rooted in a passion for sailing” said Ariane de Rothschild, CEO of Edmond de Rothschild. “Supporting Les Voiles de Saint-Tropez reconnects us with cherished memories and honours the vision of Edmond, my father-in-law. Forty-five years ago, one of his dreams became reality with the creation of the Maxi class, shortly before the legendary Nioulargue – a key chapter in the Gitana saga. Beyond being a competition, Les Voiles de Saint-Tropez celebrates the true essence of sailing – its nobility, elegance, and authenticity. That spirit, which I hold dear, aligns perfectly with our values. Through this partnership, we are proud to carry on this shared philosophy and pay tribute to a way of sailing that is also a way of life.”