QINGDAO STOPOVER UPDATE

The Clipper Round the World Yacht Race was scheduled to return to Qingdao for an eighth consecutive stopover, during Leg 6 of the 2019-20 edition.

Since the outbreak of coronavirus (COVID-19), the Clipper Race and Qingdao Organising Committee have been working together to monitor the situation as it has developed. With the outbreak continuing to develop across the globe, the situation remains complex. For the safety of the Clipper Race Crew, supporters, staff and all related parties, after extensive discussion and careful evaluation, the Clipper Race and Qingdao Organising Committee today jointly confirmed that the upcoming Qingdao stopover has been cancelled and the race will not stop in Qingdao this edition.

The health and safety of the Clipper Race Crew, supporters, Race Partners and staff remains paramount, and in light of the ongoing health concerns, the Clipper Race and Qingdao Organising Committee, are in agreement that though difficult, this is the best course of action.

Qingdao is the longest Team Partner of the Clipper Race, holding a special relationship which spans 18 years, and the two will continue to pursue the goals and objectives of the partnership campaign.

Says Sir Robin Knox-Johnston: “We are very disappointed that our crew will not have the wonderful experience of visiting China’s sailing city and enjoying its renowned hospitality. We look forward to meeting our good friends in Qingdao in the future but in the meantime the Qingdao team will continue to fly the flag of this great city as the race continues.”

An extremely popular and renowned destination on the race route it is a great disappointment not to be able to experience the stopover. The Qingdao yacht, Ambassador Crew Members and international crew racing on board will however, continue to represent China's Sailing City around the world.

The Clipper 2019-20 Race route has been amended to take into account this decision with further details to be announced shortly.