Martin Wrigley and Bettine Harris claim European title in Vilamoura

Dominant display sees 470 pair crowned Continental champions for first time 

Martin Wrigley and Bettine Harris delivered a superb performance to secure the 2026 European Championship after a thrilling final day of medal racing in Portugal.

The British 470 duo sealed the continental crown with a commanding display on Saturday, capping off a consistent week of racing and beginning their 2026 season in the best possible way.

After fighting their way into the overall lead going into the medal series, Wrigley and Harris entered the final day determined to maintain control of the fleet. They did exactly that in the opening medal race, crossing the finish line first and extending their advantage over their closest rivals.

The British duo took a seven point margin over the Italian pairing of Giacomo Ferrari and Alessandra Dubbini, and a 14 point cushion to the Spanish crew of Jordi Xammar and Marta Cardona, into the final race of the week. 

Despite the comfortable points advantage, shifty and unpredictable conditions tested the fleet, and a difficult start briefly put the British pair under pressure. However, they held their nerve doing exactly what was required to protect their lead and secure their first European title. 

Wrigley said: “It’s an incredible feeling to become European champions. The racing all week has been unbelievably close, so we knew we had to stay focused right until the end. We’re really proud of how we sailed and adapted to the new format and conditions throughout the week. We managed to hold it together when it mattered most in the Medal Series today and it is the perfect way to start the season.”

Martin Wrigley and Bettine Harris in action at the 470 (mixed) Euros in Vilamoura

The victory comes just eight months after the pair finished third at the 2025 World Championships in Gdynia. 

Harris added: “This win means a lot to us especially after a pretty challenging winter and a long time since our last major regatta. The racing has been super competitive and the standard incredibly high, which makes this result even more rewarding. I’m super thankful  to Martin and to our coach Gidi (Kliger) this week for being outstanding as always.”

Harris and Wrigley will be hoping to continue their fine form in Palma along with the rest of the British Sailing Team later this month at the Princess Sofia Trophy.