So many superlatives, so much public interest, such ambitious goals. Boris Herrmann's new Imoca 60 would be exceptional if it were described in terms of numbers and potential: 35,000 hours of development went into the new "Malizia - Seaexplorer", even more hours went into its construction, and twice in the next two years it will sail around the world at distances of up to 500 nautical miles and more.

The next Vendée Globe may not start until November 2024, but one launch after another is already lined up. One of the most sensational new developments to date is Boris Herrmann's "Malizia - Seaexplorer". With its soft spoon bow, it is in line with the current school of thought; it is also designed to enable longer distances in the Southern Ocean by not braking abruptly when falling from the foils.

For Boris Herrmann, the upcoming Vendée Globe will be his second participation. For more than two decades now, this once young lad from Oldenburg has been going his own way - determined like no other. At the age of 19, he found a sponsor for his dream of taking part in a mini-Transat, as the third (and to date youngest) German in the single-handed class. Boris Herrmann, visibly matured, has bitten his way through and is now one of the favourites for the Vendée Globe.

With the christening of the "Malizia - Seaexplorer", Boris Herrmann will leave another milestone in his career behind him. On 6 and 7 September, "Malizia - Seaexplorer" will be coming to Hamburg with Boris Herrmann for the christening of his new Imoca. So you can see him live. If you can't make it, you'll find everything you need to know in this special. And we'll be reporting on the latest happenings.

The contents of the Boris Herrmann Special:

• Open 60: What makes the IMOCA class so special
• Boris Herrmann on his first experiences with his new boat at sea
• Technology at a glance: the most important details of "Malizia - Seaexplorer"
• Boris Herrmann explains the new "Malizia - Seaexplorer" in an interview
• First ditching of "Malizia - Seaexplorer"80,000 hours of work; Boris Herrmann's Imoca 60 floats
• First sailing test for "Malizia - Seaexplorer":"A fantastic boat!"
• Team Malizia: Dhe new gennaker - a work of art
• Event dates
• Virtual tour of the "Malizia" with Lars Bolle and Andreas Fritsch
• Four aces for Boris: a portrait of the "Malizia" crew