John Ripard, Olympic sailor and Middle Sea Race co-founder, dies at 97
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 25, 2026, 5:00 AM
Last updated Jul 25, 2026
John Ripard, a prominent figure in Maltese yachting and an Olympic sailor, passed away on July 1, 2026, at the age of 97. He represented Malta in the 1960 Rome Olympic Games and co-founded the Middle Sea Race in the late 1960s. Ripard won the inaugural race in 1968 and was an international sailing judge at various prestigious events, including the America’s Cup. He was recognized for his passion for sailing and was beloved at the Royal Malta Yacht Club. He is survived by four children, and his legacy continues to inspire generations of sailors.
- •John Ripard died on July 1, 2026, at age 97.
- •He represented Malta in the 1960 Rome Olympic Games.
- •Ripard co-founded the Middle Sea Race, first held in 1968.
- •He won the inaugural Middle Sea Race and again in 1970.
- •Ripard served as an international sailing judge for major events.
- 5:00 AMYahoo Sports — John Ripard, scion of Maltese shipping dynasty, Olympic sailor and co-founder of the Middle Sea Race
"John Ripard, who has died aged 97, was one of the commanding figures of Maltese yachting: an Olympic sailor, international judge, shipping entrepreneur, and one of the founders of the Middle Sea Race.
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