On the eve of International Oceans Day, The Ocean Race Europe in Genova was presented. The ocean race, running for the first time, started on 29 May from Lorient in France, it then stopped in Cascais in Portugal, where the 12 professional teams departed on Sunday 6 June for Alicante, arriving for the finale in Genova for the very first time, in little under ten days.

A taste of what is to come in 2023, when the city of the Lanterna will host the Grand Finale of the sailing race around the world, The Ocean Race 2022-23. There are many events that the city has organised to welcome the fleet, with teams coming from all over the world, a full program of events and initiatives for residents, tourists and the public of all ages, who, for four days, from Thursday 17^th to Sunday 20^th June will animate the Porto Antico, while following Covid restrictions.

BUCCI: “ECONOMIC RETURNS OF AT LEAST 3 TIMES THE INVESTMENT”

“We are proud to be hosts for the first edition of The Ocean Race Europe – said the mayor of Genova, Marco Bucci – which will be a great event for ocean sailing in 2021. Genova will have a central role on the international stage and will be able to celebrate its traditions and ambitions, in addition to applying as a candidate for other future international events. Our city is focusing on being more present globally.”

“This will also be an important time for all residents of Genova – added Bucci – who can, finally once again enjoy events in person with others. Professional sailing is on its way and Genova is ready to welcome it. Fair winds to all!”

According to the mayor, in Alicante, The Ocean Race had an economic return of 1:15. “Regarding the arrival of The Ocean Race Europe – explained the mayor – we don’t want to be excessive in our forecast and, for now, we have estimated an economic return of 1:3. Meaning that for every euro invested in the event, 3 euros will remain locally, in terms of tourism, shops, hotels, restaurants and services.”

TOTI: “MORE INTERNATIONAL SAILING IN LIGURIA”

The president of Regione Liguria, Giovanni Toti, who participated in the conference remotely, noted how the presentation of a historic event for the city fell on the same day as when the region went back to a “white tier”, taking another step towards normality after months and months of restrictions.

“Genova has cemented itself as capital of the Mediterranean – said Toti – thanks to a singular and close relationship with the sea, the heart and soul of the city and of all of Liguria. We are proud of hosting an event of this import and bearing, which not only coincides with Liguria’s recovery, but also supports the region. Our region is increasingly becoming more of a sailing capital at an international level: in June we are also hosting the 68^th edition of the Giraglia Rolex Cup in Sanremo, and in July the ‘420 World Championship’  in Santo Stefano al Mare. These are events of international importance that contribute to bringing the name Liguria around the world and make our area ‘the right place to be.’”

Evelina Christillin, chairperson of the organisational committee for Genova The Grand Finale, also participated in the conference, and noted how sporting events are not only an attraction but also a generator of growth for the cities that host them.

“I know from personal experience, – noted  Evelina Christillin – the Olympics in Turin in 2006, the bid for Milano-Cortina for the ones in 2026 and the presence in a number of some of the most important football events in the world, how important large sporting events are for the areas that host them. The organisational skills, international visibility, the feeling of pride and belonging, leave a concrete and moral legacy that leads to development, credibility and prospects for the long term. Genova and Liguria, therefore, have a unique opportunity to showcase their value across the five continents where the sails of The Ocean Race will stop.”

BRISIUS: “I CAN’T WAIT TO COME BACK TO MY SECOND HOME”

A passionate message was sent via video and in Italian, by the chairman for The Ocean Race, Richard Brisius. “We are about to arrive with The Ocean Race Europe – he noted – in Genova, Italy, and I can’t imagine a better finale, because this is my second home.” Brisius is Swedish, but he has lived in Liguria and participated in the world tour twice, in both cases on Italian boats.

“The race is under way – explained the chairman – it is close, and we really don’t know who will win in Genova. Our idea is to create an event for athletes and, these are some of the best in the world, but also an event that keeps Europe united. At this time is is important to work together and Europe is a platform and an opportunity to create a better future. I hope I can celebrate the arrival of the boats and that everyone visits the Porto Antico to see these exceptional vessels. The Ocean Race Europe will be a celebration for Genova, but it also a time to think about the last year, which has been so hard for so many, and to think about a more sustainable future. I can’t wait to be there with you!”

CELEBRATIONS AT PORTO ANTICO: THE AMERIGO VESPUCCI IS COMING

All events on land will take place at the Porto Antico, which is also where the 12 vessel fleet will be docked, near the Biosfera. “The arrival of The Ocean Race Europe – noted the chairman for the Porto Antico di Genova Spa, Mauro Ferrando – is a sign of our recovery, the best seal of approval for the recovery of our businesses. For us this will be a source of pride, welcoming the boats and their crews and allowing everyone the extraordinary chance of seeing the boats up close, as well as meet internationally famous racers. These will be days of celebrations, open to everyone, controlled and safe, with a passion for the sea, the essence of our city.”

Among the events of note are, in the afternoon of 17 June, the arrival of the Amerigo Vespucci, which will remain docked at the Magazzini del Cotone until Saturday 19^th, when it will depart in the morning. The teams, instead, will arrive during the day on Wednesday 16 June and, during their stay in Genova, on the 18^th and 19^th, they will compete in coastal races, for the general ranking, which will be announced on Saturday 19^th at 6pm during the awards ceremony at the Porto Antico.

Giuseppe Orrù

A map of the Porto Antico during The Ocean Race Europe