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A new era for the Ocean Race
The Ocean Race, famed for testing endurance and teamwork on the high seas, is writing an exciting new chapter. For five decades our story has been one of hosting a single round-the-world race every three or four years. But today, the Race is evolving into an “always on” format.
The Ocean Race 1973 S.L., based in Alicante, will offer three different race events over the next few years:
The Ocean Race Europe 2025, The Ocean Race Atlantic 2026 and The Ocean Race 2027, all of which sit alongside our ongoing sustainability initiatives promoting a healthier ocean.
The Ocean Race Europe 2025:
Connecting Europe
Kicking off this new format will be The Ocean Race Europe 2025, starting in Kiel, Germany, and navigating through key European ports such as Portsmouth (UK), Cartagena (Spain), and Genova (Italy), before finishing in Boka Bay, Montenegro. The route has been carefully selected not only for its challenging racing conditions but also to engage race fans on sustainability. Each stopover will feature initiatives aimed at promoting ocean health and climate action, underlining The Ocean Race's longstanding commitment to cleaner, healthier seas. This event will also provide opportunities for local communities to engage and collaborate with ocean experts. While at sea, the sailors will engage in data collection to enhance important ocean science initiatives.
The Ocean Race Atlantic 2026:
New York to Barcelona
A year after the Europe race, The Ocean Race Atlantic 2026 will see teams embark on a thrilling transatlantic journey from New York to Barcelona. This race will feature fully-crewed foiling IMOCA class boats, with a historic 50-50 split of two men and two women in each crew (plus an on board reporter). Spanning approximately 3,200 nautical miles, the course will transition from the Atlantic Ocean through the Strait of Gibraltar and into the Mediterranean Sea, for a 500-mile sprint to Barcelona, where sailors will face a challenging finale that could shake up the leaderboard.
Once again, the race crews will engage in a comprehensive ocean science programme along the race route, gathering vital data to support research on the impact of climate change on the ocean. Schools and nautical academies will also take part, promoting ocean literacy among children and young people. Richard Brisius, Race Chairman of The Ocean Race, emphasised the significance of this new event, stating, “The Ocean Race Atlantic is a tremendous addition to our race calendar, expanding our ocean science and learning activities while pushing sporting boundaries with the 50-50 crew split.”
The Ocean Race 2027:
The Return of the Iconic Round-the-World Race
In 2027, the classic The Ocean Race around the world race will return, starting from Alicante, Spain. This event will maintain its status as the pinnacle of offshore sailing, testing teams as they circle the globe in IMOCA 60 yachts.
With the introduction of this enhanced racing calendar, The Ocean Race is not only expanding its competitive offerings but is also strengthening the connection between sailors, fans, and the ocean. As we look forward to these thrilling events, one thing is clear: The Ocean Race remains the ultimate test of teamwork and a celebration of the important impact the ocean has on all of our lives.
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