In the first edition of the race, then still called the Whitbread Round the World Race, three Italian yachts were at the start, but none since 1993. That was about to change. And it all seemed to work out. Giovanni Soldini, an experienced ocean veteran, was hired as skipper and the Yacht Club Italiano was behind the project.
The "Ericsson 3" from the last race was taken over and trained on. But in the end there was no money. The club actually wanted to get it, but now had to pass.
Back on 3 March, Club President Carlo Croce announced at a sailing presentation event in Milan that participation in the Volvo Ocean Race would be suspended for the time being. He thanked Soldini for the work he had done. Soldini took a wistful view: "It was a busy year, but a lost season for a lot of people who had put all their heart into this task. The current economic situation has not helped us, but we will continue to work, gain experience and prepare for the next edition."
This means that only six teams are officially registered:
Groupama Sailing Team, France
Abu Dhabi Ocean Racing Team
Puma Ocean Racing (with the German Michi Müller)
Camper, the Spanish food chain co-operates with Team New Zealand
and two Spanish teams that are still under wraps
However, according to Knut Frostad, Managing Director of the Volvo Ocean Races, other teams are still preparing to take part.
Lars Bolle
Chief Editor Digital
