The five-week passage race will see a fleet of some of the top IMOCA teams battle it out over a course that will take them through the Baltic, Mediterranean, and Adriatic seas, and the inclusion of Nice promises a spectacular new venue for offshore racing.
This exciting development brings France’s rich offshore sailing tradition into new waters. While much of the French IMOCA scene has historically been focused on the Atlantic coast, the Nice stopover offers a fresh opportunity for teams to engage with Mediterranean fans. “France is a foundational base for so many IMOCA sailors and teams,” said Phil Lawrence, Race Director for The Ocean Race. “Bringing the race to the Med allows us to showcase the talent, the sport, and the incredible boats in one of France’s most stunning waterfront venues.”
The Ocean Race Europe is built around the theme of ‘Connecting Europe’ and will see teams racing into seven cities and countries. The event also aligns with the EU Mission to protect and restore ocean health, reinforcing The Ocean Race’s commitment to sustainability through its award-winning Racing with Purpose program. The timing of the Nice stopover couldn’t be more fitting, as it follows the third United Nations Ocean Conference (UNOC) in June, where global leaders will discuss strategies for sustainable ocean use.
As always, The Ocean Race Europe is about more than just high-speed sailing. The fleet’s onboard scientific instruments will be gathering vital ocean data along the route, contributing to global research efforts. This blend of elite competition and environmental advocacy has now become a defining feature of The Ocean Race.
The Route: From Kiel to the Adriatic
The race kicks off on August 10, 2025, in Kiel, Germany, from where the IMOCA crews will race across the Baltic and North Seas to Portsmouth, UK (August 14-17), before heading south for a flyby in Portugal on August 20. After entering the Mediterranean through the Gibraltar Strait, the next stopover is in Cartagena, Spain (August 23-26), setting the stage for the fleet’s arrival in Nice (August 29-31). From there, the race continues to Genoa, Italy (September 3-7)** before culminating in a thrilling finale on the Adriatic coast of Montenegro’s Boka Bay (September 15-21).
Nice’s Mayor, Christian Estrosi, expressed his enthusiasm for the city’s first-ever Ocean Race stopover: “Nice is reaffirming its status as a global sailing destination. This event will not only provide spectacular racing but also strengthen our commitment to ocean preservation. The public will be treated to an incredible showcase in the Baie des Anges.”
A Top Name Lineup
Some of the biggest names in IMOCA racing are set to take on this European challenge.
Boris Herrmann** – Team Malizia (GER)
Thomas Ruyant – Vulnerable - TR Racing (FRA)
Yoann Richomme – Paprec Arkéa (FRA)
Scott Shawyer – Be Water Positive Sailing Team (CAN)
Rosalin Kuiper** – Team Holcim PRB (SUI)
More team and crew announcements are expected in the coming weeks, adding further anticipation to what promises to be a gripping competition.
A Homecoming for Richomme
For Yoann Richomme, the race’s arrival in Nice is a particularly special moment. Born in nearby Fréjus, the Paprec Arkéa skipper has deep ties to the region. “I’ve raced a lot in the South of France, and having The Ocean Race Europe stop here is fantastic,” he said. “It’s a great opportunity to showcase IMOCA racing to a new audience, and I can’t wait to meet sailing fans on the Côte d’Azur.”
Beyond the thrill of competition, Richomme and his team are eager to contribute to the race’s scientific initiatives. “This race allows us to conduct valuable ocean research, helping scientists better understand the state of our seas. It’s a crucial aspect of our sport, and I’m proud to be part of it.”
More to Come
The Ocean Race Europe 2025 is just one of three major events on the race’s calendar over the next three years, leading up to The Ocean Race Atlantic in 2026 and the next full edition of The Ocean Race in 2027. With an ever-growing focus on ocean science and sustainability, The Ocean Race is proving that its mission extends well beyond the racecourse.
