More than 200 people gathered in Genoa last week for The Ocean Race Summit Genoa 2026, a one-day forum focused on ocean protection and humanity's relationship with the sea. Held at the Palazzo Ducale, the event brought together youth advocates, scientists, sailors, creative figures, and political leaders from across Europe and beyond.
The Summit forms part of The Ocean Race's wider sustainability programme and was structured to encourage direct engagement rather than formal presentations. Live polling, open questions, and audience-led discussion kept young participants at the centre of proceedings, with decision-makers expected to respond in real time.
Actress and environmental advocate Bailey Bass hosted the event, opening the day by inviting attendees to reflect on their personal connection to the ocean.
“The Summit invited participants to connect with their own ‘blue mind’, the personal space where the ocean lives within each of us,” Bass said in her opening remarks.
Genoa's role as host city reflected its growing involvement with The Ocean Race. The city has previously hosted the 2023 round-the-world race finale, earlier summits, and stopovers for The Ocean Race Europe, reinforcing its standing as a long-term partner in both the sporting and sustainability dimensions of the event.
The Ocean Race chairman Richard Brisius outlined how the race has developed beyond elite competition into a broader platform for ocean science, education, and policy engagement. He made the case for sport and storytelling as tools for connecting the realities of offshore sailing with public awareness on land.
Marine biologist Mariasole Bianco, president of Worldrise, examined the current state of ocean health while acknowledging recent international progress, including the entry into force of the High Seas Treaty. Her contribution brought together scientific urgency and the practical need to maintain momentum.
Later in the day, Genoa mayor Silvia Salis spoke to the responsibility institutions carry in taking youth input seriously as environmental policy continues to develop.
“Young people are not just calling for change, they are already driving it. Institutions, cities, and leaders need to listen,” Salis said.
Two interactive panels closed the Summit, giving young participants the opportunity to question leaders on conservation and policy before the format was reversed, with leaders asking what support young people need to be effective. A consistent theme ran through both sessions: meaningful ocean protection depends on long-term participation, education, and shared responsibility across all parts of society.
