The Ocean Race Announces 10-year Race Plan

The Ocean Race has postponed its next race for 12 months due to the coronavirus pandemic, and has announced a new mapped-out calendar of races for the next 10 years.

For the first time, three future editions of the race have been confirmed for the next decade, while the organisation has also said a feasibility study is currently underway for a European race to take place in the summer of 2021.

The next edition will start from Alicante in October 2022 and finish in Genova, Italy, in the summer of 2023 during what will be the 50th jubilee anniversary year of The Ocean Race.

The next three editions will be fully-crewed, around the world yacht races and will take place in 2022/23, in 2026/27 and in 2030/31.

“Since 1973, The Ocean Race has been one of the toughest challenges in sport. Winning teams have showcased that proper preparation is the foundation for success. We now find ourselves in unprecedented times and our first priority is with all those who have been and continue to be affected by the pandemic,” said Richard Brisius, Race Chairman, The Ocean Race.

“As an international sporting competition, with stops on six continents, we are deeply connected to the changing reality of sailors, teams, cities and partners across the world. We have worked positively together over the past months to develop a stable and improved future, and this has led to the first ever 10-year plan of The Ocean Race, a 10-year plan adapted to the new reality in an innovative, sustainable and responsible way.

“This provides improved opportunities for sailors, teams, cities and partners to prepare properly for The Ocean Race and it gives fans something outstanding to look forward to over the coming years.”

The Ocean Race says its sustainability programme will remain a core pillar of the Race, and will continue to grow under the banner of Racing with Purpose. 

Meanwhile, The Ocean Race Summits, the Education and Science Programmes will all be enhanced and integrated into all facets of the organisation of the Race, according to organisers.

All of the previously announced host cities and partners for the next edition of the Race will be involved for the 2022/23 event, while organisers say Volvo Cars – Premier Partner of The Ocean Race – has offered its unqualified support for the plans.