Image: DMG MORI Sailing Team will build a new IMOCA race boat ahead of The Ocean Race 2027
© Thomas Deregnieaux / QAPTUR / DMG MORI
The team reveals plans for a new, cutting-edge IMOCA 60 to be launched in time to compete in the next around the world races, with the aim of participating in the The Ocean Race 2027 and the Vendée Globe 2028.
With performance and reliability in mind, the DMG MORI Sailing Team started the project in July of this year, with experienced partners like the naval architect Guillaume Verdier - who has more than 20 years of experience in the world of competitive sailing - and Multiplast, a reliable and long-standing partner of the team, who will build the new race boat using high performance composite materials.
As well as preparing for the current Vendée Globe 2024, the team is already focusing on the future. The new boat will be able to switch its design from a crewed racing configuration to participate in The Ocean Race 2027, and then be optimised for single-handed racing ahead of the Vendée Globe 2028.
The Verdier design will incorporate the latest developments in aerodynamics and hydrodynamics. It will achieve optimum performance and reliability through the use of carbon fibre and other lightweight, high-strength materials.
"We are delighted to announce the construction of the new boat," says Irene Bader, Managing Director of the DMG MORI Sailing Team and member of the DMG MORI Board. "With this step we are not only embracing the latest technology, but also the experience and expertise of the entire team. The boat should be strong and embody innovation and team spirit.
“This is the first time we have planned a boat like this from the ground up, taking into account the latest innovations in boat building. It is a challenge, but we are looking forward to achieving it with our unique and diverse team. It is a great opportunity to learn from each other and to show our Global One spirit,” says DMG MORI Skipper Kojiro Shiraishi.
The launch of the new IMOCA race boat is planned for early 2026. The DMG MORI Sailing Team thus confirms the long-term and future-orientated focus of the project.
Next chapter: The Ocean Race
By participating in The Ocean Race 2027, the world's most famous crewed race, the team is embarking on its next chapter in offshore sailing. With strong Japanese and French roots and further nationalities among the team members, cultural diversity is a key theme that the team wants to live and showcase during The Ocean Race. Beyond the international line-up of the team, intergenerational exchange and dialogue is another aspect the team will focus on. Experienced sailors will compete in The Ocean Race alongside the younger talents of the team. The DMG MORI Sailing Academy has been set up to empower young talent to work in offshore sailing and to develop their skills by gaining racing experience in the Classe Mini 6.50 and, as of this year, also in Figaro Beneteau.
About the DMG MORI Sailing Team
Established in 2018, the DMG MORI Sailing Team is a professional offshore racing team based in Lorient, France. The Japanese Skipper Kojiro Shiraishi and the crew successfully mastered the Vendée Globe 2020, which is considered to be the toughest race in the world. With the DMG MORI Sailing Academy, founded in 2022, young talents are empowered to work in offshore sailing and to grow their skills by being part of the DMG MORI Sailing Team.