Arrival in Genoa
The first edition of The Ocean Race Europe will end in Genoa, Italy the last week of June.
This historic maritime city will already be the cradle of the final finish of the next edition of the crewed round the world race, The Ocean Race (formerly Volvo Ocean Race) in 2022-23.
“With The Ocean Race Europe, we are making the dream of many a reality – a race between several European cities, with committed fans and athletes achieving the extraordinary while leading change for a healthier planet,” said Richard Brisius, President of the race.
The Ocean Race Europe is open to VO65 one-designs (boats from the last two editions of the Volvo Ocean Race) as well as to Imoca class boats.
Departure from Brittany, but not from Brest
The race will start from the Breton Atlantic coast at the end of May. The port of departure is not yet known. According to our information, for a while, the city of Brest declined the offer from the organizers of Ocean Race Europe, deeming the cost too high. The city of Ponant also has other sporting priorities this year, including the start of the Tour de France cycling race and a Multi 50 Grand Prix.
Among the other ports capable of accommodating 10 Imoca and 5 VOR 65, there remains for example Saint-Malo, Lorient, but also Douarnenez.
A stopover in Portugal
The crews will compete in several stages before arriving in Genoa, the third week of June. The other stopover cities will be revealed shortly. It seems already certain that Cascais in Portugal will be the end of the first stage.
From Portugal, the fleet, bypassing the Iberian Peninsula should arrive in a port on the French Riviera (Nice? Saint-Tropez?) For the end of the 2nd stage.
The third stage will therefore arrive in Genoa, third week of June, at the same time as the Rolex Giraglia, the biggest race in the Mediterranean.
The VO65 fleet will also take part in the Prologue of The Ocean Race Europe which will set off from the Baltic Sea in early May.
Among the announced Imoca : Louis Burton (Bureau Vallée), Nicolas Troussel (Corum L’Epargne), Boris Hermann (Sea Explorer), Charlie Enright (11th Hour Racing Team (USA)
Among the VOR 65 announced: Yoann Richomme(Mirpuri Foundation Racing Team (POR)
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