Alicante will serve as the departure port for the 15th edition of The Ocean Race on January 17, 2027, marking the sixth time the global sailing event has launched its round-the-world race from the Spanish coastal city. The upcoming edition will feature an unprecedented opening leg of 14,000 nautical miles—approximately 26,000 kilometers—stretching from Alicante to Auckland, New Zealand, in what organizers report is the longest initial stage in the 54-year history of the competition.
A Historic and Demanding Opening Leg to Auckland
The first leg of The Ocean Race 2027 will push IMOCA class fleets through a grueling test of endurance and tactical preparation. According to race details, the fleet will depart the Mediterranean Sea, descend through the Atlantic Ocean, navigate the equatorial doldrums, and push deep into the Southern Ocean before turning north toward Auckland. The mammoth 14,000-nautical-mile journey will take crews roughly halfway through the entire circumnavigation during just the opening stage.
She emphasized that the monumental stretch will require extensive preparation over the preceding months to ready both boat and crew for the trials of the Southern Ocean.
Alicante Transforms Into the Global Epicenter of Ocean Sailing
Teams are scheduled to arrive in Alicante weeks ahead of the January 17 start date to finalize preparations on their IMOCA yachts. The city’s Muelle de Levante will host the Ocean Live Park, positioned near the Paseo de la Explanada alongside the Race Headquarters offices and The Ocean Race Museum. The fan village will welcome visitors from January 8 to January 18, offering ten days of interactive exhibits, ocean conservation education, and direct access to competing sailors.
Local and regional officials highlighted the enduring partnership between the host city and the international competition.
Marián Cano, the regional Minister of Industry, Tourism, Innovation and Commerce for the Generalitat Valenciana, underscored the broader impact of the event. Cano stated that the continued partnership confirms the capability of the Comunitat Valenciana to successfully host major international sporting events while showcasing the region’s commitment to tourism, sustainability, and technological innovation.
Fleet Preparation and New Faces on the Horizon
As preparations ramp up in the Mediterranean, skippers are balancing technical refits with strategic planning. Swiss skipper Oliver Heer, leading the Embrace the Challenge campaign, noted the vibrant atmosphere surrounding the host city before the fleet cuts ties with the dock. Meanwhile, Boris Herrmann’s Team Malizia continues its campaign development following the launch of a new vessel in July. With teams locking in their preparations ahead of the January 8 opening of the Ocean Live Park, Alicante stands ready to launch the fleet toward New Zealand in what promises to be a landmark chapter for professional ocean racing.
