Porto to host The Ocean Race headquarters and starts until 2040

Porto has secured a long-term partnership to become the global headquarters and primary starting port for The Ocean Race through 2040. This agreement, involving the City of Porto, Turismo de Portugal, and Turismo do Porto e Norte de Portugal, marks a significant shift in the regatta's operations.

The partnership includes a Special Race in 2028 and three full editions of the round-the-world race starting from Porto in 2030, 2034, and 2038. The project aims to establish Porto as a world-class hub for the offshore racing industry, integrating ocean science, education, and the blue economy. Plans include the creation of an Ocean Museum and the transformation of the Kasa da Praia building into the organization's operational headquarters.

This move ends a long-standing tenure for Alicante, Spain, which has served as a starting point since 2008. The 2027 edition will be the final race to depart from Alicante. While the transition has been met with political debate in Porto regarding municipal costs and benefits, it is viewed by organizers as a strategic move to leverage Porto's deep maritime identity and Atlantic connection.