Porto in Portugal is set to become the new global headquarters of The Ocean Race from 2028, with the Atlantic coastal city also hosting the start of three editions of the round-the-world sailing competition.
The long-term partnership between The Ocean Race, the City of Porto, Turismo de Portugal and Turismo do Porto e Norte de Portugal will see Porto host the start of the 2030, 2034 and 2038 editions, as well as a special sailing event in 2028.
The agreement, which runs through 2040, will also bring at least six editions of The Ocean Race Europe to Portugal, alongside a wider programme of international sailing events, ocean science, education and sustainability initiatives.
The partnership aims to strengthen Portugal’s position as a destination for major international sporting events, while establishing Porto as a leading European hub for offshore sailing.
“We want to inspire the world to achieve the extraordinary and in Porto we welcome a long-term partner who shares that purpose,” said Richard Brisius, Race Chairman of The Ocean Race.
“Porto and Portugal have a deep maritime identity, a powerful connection to the Atlantic and an increasingly important role in sport, science, innovation and the blue economy.
“We are excited to build a future in Porto, a future that will serve our sailors, teams and partners, strengthen our sport and, most importantly, help us do more for the ocean.”
A new home for The Ocean Race on the Atlantic
A historic waterfront building near Porto City Park will be transformed into the operational headquarters of The Ocean Race, with public and educational activities planned from 2028.
A new museum is also planned at another waterfront location, celebrating the history of The Ocean Race, its sailors and teams, as well as Portugal’s maritime heritage.
The wider partnership will connect Porto with coastal communities across Portugal, supporting international sailing events, ocean science, education and sustainability initiatives.
“With Porto at the heart of this partnership, and with the whole country involved, we can share Portugal’s Atlantic identity with audiences around the world,” said Pedro Machado, Secretary of State for Tourism, Commerce and Services.
“At the same time, we can strengthen our position in nautical tourism and major international events while creating new connections between sport, science, innovation and the ocean economy.”
Carlos Abade, President of Turismo de Portugal, described the partnership as “a defining step in Portugal’s global positioning”, highlighting its potential to attract investment, talent and sustainable tourism.
A new home for ocean racing
The agreement is also expected to provide long-term opportunities for Portuguese sailors and the wider offshore racing industry.
“For someone like me, who grew up sailing on these waters, this is incredibly special,” said Portuguese sailor Mariana Lobato, who co-skippered the United by the Ocean Team to victory in The Ocean Race Atlantic.
Porto Mayor Pedro Duarte said the project would create a lasting platform for science, innovation, education, tourism and ocean health.
The Ocean Race will also expand its Racing for the Ocean programme, which brings together scientists, educators, athletes and international organisations to promote ocean conservation.
The Ocean Race Summit Porto on 19 November 2026 will be an early milestone in the partnership.
Meanwhile, the next edition of The Ocean Race around the world will start from Alicante, Spain, on 17 January 2027, marking the sixth consecutive edition to begin in the city.
Main image: the city of Porto in Portugal (Credit: Daniel Seßler/Unsplash)