The legendary round-the-world sailing race, The Ocean Race, has chosen Porto as the home of its global headquarters. From 2028 onwards, the Portuguese city will also host the starts of future editions, under a long-term partnership running until 2040.
The Ocean Race: Porto Becomes the New Global Capital of Offshore Sailing
More than half a century after the first start of the Whitbread Round the World Race in 1973, The Ocean Race is opening a new chapter in its history. On 6 October 2026, the organisers of the renowned crewed round-the-world race announced a partnership agreement with the city of Porto and Portuguese tourism organisations, extending until 2040.
this agreement of exceptional scope provides for the relocation of the event’s global headquarters to Portugal, as well as the start of three round-the-world races from Porto in 2030, 2034 and 2038. The decision marks a strategic turning point for a competition widely regarded as one of the leading events in offshore sailing. After decades of international development and several editions starting from Alicante, The Ocean Race now intends to make Porto its main hub.
A New Headquarters on the Atlantic Coast
The future headquarters of The Ocean Race will be housed in a historic building on Porto’s waterfront, opposite Parque da Cidade, one of Portugal’s largest urban parks. Renovation work is intended to accommodate the organisation’s operational activities from 2028 onwards, alongside spaces dedicated to innovation, education and international gatherings.
A separate coastal building will also house a museum devoted to the history of the race, its leading figures and Portugal’s maritime heritage. The aim is to create a vibrant destination that brings the general public closer to the world of offshore sailing.
However, the ambitions extend well beyond infrastructure. By attracting professional teams, yacht designers, engineers, specialist companies and technology partners, Porto hopes to develop a fully fledged ecosystem around offshore racing. This strategy could strengthen Portugal’s position in a particularly competitive European marine industry.
Three Round-the-World Races and a Decade of Major Events
The schedule underlines the significance of the partnership. In 2028, Porto will host an initial special race before becoming the starting port for the 2030, 2034 and 2038 editions of The Ocean Race.
At least six additional international events associated with The Ocean Race Europe are also planned over the course of the agreement.
For Portuguese sailors, this new presence offers exciting opportunities. Mariana Lobato, who won The Ocean Race Atlantic 2026 with the United by the Ocean Team, highlighted the importance of the partnership and the opportunities it could create for younger generations. They will be able to meet leading international crews and gain first-hand insight into the demands of elite offshore sailing.
Ocean Conservation as Another Key Priority
Beyond sport, The Ocean Race also intends to establish Porto as a leading centre for ocean research and conservation. Its Racing for the Ocean programme, which combines scientific research, environmental awareness and data collection at sea, will therefore play a central role in the organisation’s new home.
A first international summit on ocean health has already been announced. The The Ocean Race Summit Porto is scheduled for 19 November 2026, bringing together scientists, sailors, policymakers and business leaders to discuss the major challenges facing marine conservation.
Alicante Retains Its Place in the Story
The new partnership does not mean that Alicante will disappear from The Ocean Race landscape. The Spanish port will host the start of its sixth consecutive round-the-world race on 17 January 2027.
The organisers have confirmed their intention to continue working with the city, although the details of the future arrangement have yet to be clarified.
Find out more: theoceanrace.com