Yanmar has signed a long-term agreement with the IMOCA Class, becoming the class’s official technical partner and reference supplier of marine engines and propulsion systems from the beginning of 2026.
Under the agreement, Yanmar will act as the primary and authorised supplier of next-generation marine engines and propulsion systems for all IMOCA Class sailing yachts. The partnership places Yanmar at the centre of the class’s technical framework, with its products designated as the benchmark for performance, durability, and reliability in the world’s most demanding offshore races.
The IMOCA Class, short for International Monohull Open Class Association, governs the cutting-edge 60-foot monohulls that compete in events such as the Vendée Globe. While sail-driven, these yachts rely heavily on auxiliary propulsion systems for safety, power generation, and manoeuvring, making engine reliability critical over long offshore campaigns.
Wouter-Jan Van der Wurff, President and CEO of Yanmar Marine International, said the partnership aligns closely 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 key pillar of the agreement is Yanmar’s global support capability. The company operates a network of more than 2,000 authorised distributors and dealers across over 130 countries, providing essential service and parts access for teams racing internationally.
IMOCA President Antoine Mermod said the partnership reflects shared ambitions 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 position as a proving ground for advanced marine technology, with potential long-term benefits extending beyond racing into the wider marine sector.
