Ferrari building first sailing yacht for ocean racing

Luxury Italian car manufacturer Ferrari has revealed radical plans to take to the oceans and launch a sail racing team in partnership with yachtsman Giovanni Soldini (pictured above) as team principal.

In a statement released on Wednesday (24 January 2024), the Maranello-based company says: ‘In addition to competing on tracks all over the world, Ferrari is now embarking on this new venture to enhance its technological know-how.’

The firm says the search for ‘maximum performance at sea’ will generate innovations for sustainability that it could ultimately implement in the evolution of its sports cars.

Ferrari says its sailing yacht would rely on ‘cutting-edge technologies throughout the entire cycle, from conception and engineering to realisation’.

“We are about to embark on an exciting journey that will expand our racing soul,” says John Elkann, chair of Ferrari. “With this new competitive challenge, motivated by our innovative capacity and commitment to sustainability, we will push beyond current boundaries. We are happy to be able to count on Giovanni, who is extraordinary in terms of experience, determination and team spirit.”

Earlier this week, 57-year-old Soldini and the Italian carmaker Maserati announced the end of their 11-year partnership in ocean navigation. Maserati is part of Stellantis, of which Elkann is also chair.

“I am thrilled to start this new adventure with Ferrari,” says Soldini, who has completed two solo round-the-world races. “We are working on an important and cutting-edge project with an amazing technological potential that brings together different worlds and skills of the highest level.

“Working with an exceptional team in the research and development of innovative solutions that are respectful of our environment is a truly unique experience.”