Marlow Ropes returns as Official Supplier for Clipper 2025-26 Race

Marlow Ropes, a global leader in high-performance rope technology, is returning as the Official Running Rigging Supplier for the Clipper 2025-26 Race and marking its eleventh edition as a partner. 

Marlow Ropes consistently delivers exceptional strength and reliability in extreme offshore conditions. And with the race’s 40,000-nautical-mile circumnavigation providing the ultimate proving ground, Marlow can refine its cutting-edge rope technology through experience in real-world conditions. 

"We are very much looking forward to following the Race Start again this summer and following the various stories of the yachts and their crews as they embark on their round-the-world adventure," said Paul Honess, Leisure Marine Director at Marlow Ropes. 

Marlow Ropes is committed to reducing its environmental impact and has been at the forefront of sustainable rope manufacturing. In the Clipper 2025-26 Race, the company will once again supply running rigging made from 75% recycled plastic bottles.  

On the previous edition of the Clipper Race, Marlow Ropes worked closely with the Clipper Race team to develop a running rigging package that incorporated Bio Dyneema® cores and blended rPET and virgin polyester covers. These ropes performed exceptionally throughout the race, and as a result, Marlow will supply the same specification for the upcoming edition with some small updates to enhance performance further. 

Additionally, Marlow successfully tested the use of development plastic reels for one yacht kit in the last race to assess durability and potential for reuse or recycling. Following the success of this trial, these reels are now used as standard. All packaging delivered with the running rigging for the eleven Clipper Race yachts will be collected post-delivery and returned for reuse or recycling, further reducing waste. 

"Sustainability is at the core of what we do at Marlow Ropes," added Paul Honess. "Through continuous innovation, we are proving that high-performance sailing and responsible manufacturing can go hand in hand." 

Greg North, Head of Fleet Maintenance at Clipper Ventures, also highlighted the importance of this collaboration: "Marlow Ropes has been an integral part of the Clipper Race for over two decades, providing the best quality of lines needed for such a demanding challenge. Its running rigging has proven itself repeatedly in the most extreme offshore conditions, giving our crews confidence in their equipment. The addition of sustainable materials without compromising performance is a significant step forward, and we are pleased to continue working with Marlow to ensure our fleet is race-ready for the upcoming edition." 

If your company is interested in becoming a partner or sponsor of the Clipper Race, please contact the Partnerships Team to learn more:  

📧 partnerships@clipper-ventures.com