Yanmar has entered into a long-term technical partnership with the IMOCA Class, becoming the class's official technical partner and reference supplier of marine engines and propulsion systems from the start of 2026.
Under the arrangement, Yanmar will serve as the primary authorised supplier of next-generation engines and propulsion systems for all IMOCA Class sailing yachts. The deal places Yanmar at the heart of the class's technical framework, with its products designated as the benchmark for performance, durability, and reliability across the world's most demanding offshore races.
The IMOCA Class, short for International Monohull Open Class Association, governs the 60-foot monohulls that compete in events such as the Vendée Globe. Although these yachts are sail-driven, their auxiliary propulsion systems are essential for safety, onboard power generation, and manoeuvring, making engine reliability critical over long offshore campaigns.
Wouter-Jan Van der Wurff, President and CEO of Yanmar Marine International, described how the partnership aligns with the company's long-term vision.
“This is a fantastic partnership for us. We are delighted to support the IMOCA Class, which brings together the world’s most advanced and innovative offshore racing yachts. This long-term partnership is based on our cutting-edge engine technology and our global support network. We admire and share the IMOCA Class’s vision, which aligns with our philosophy of a sustainable future, where humanity and nature thrive together.”
A central element of the agreement is Yanmar's global support capability. The company maintains a network of more than 2,000 authorised distributors and dealers across over 130 countries, giving racing teams the service coverage and parts access they need wherever competition takes them.
IMOCA President Antoine Mermod said the partnership reflects shared ambitions that stretch beyond performance alone.
“We are very pleased to begin this partnership with Yanmar. We share the same ambition: to combine technological innovation with a responsible vision of offshore racing. Together, we aim to contribute to the evolution of our sport and, more broadly, of the maritime industry.”
The agreement also reinforces IMOCA's standing as a proving ground for advanced marine technology, with potential long-term benefits extending beyond racing into the wider marine sector.
