The Ocean Race Europe: Collision at the start of the first leg in Kiel, Germany
by The Ocean Race 10 Aug 10:13 PDT
10 August 2025


Holcim PRB damaged during The Ocean Race Europe start in Kiel, Germany on August 10 © Vincent Curutchet / The Ocean Race Europe


Leg One of The Ocean Race Europe launched in brilliant sunshine and a brisk westerly breeze in Kiel, Germany, creating fast, flat-water foiling conditions in a 15-19 knot breeze. But there was a dramatic collision just minutes after the start between Switzerland’s Holcim PRB and Italy’s Allagrande MAPEI Racing. Both boats immediately turned back to port for damage assessment.

  • Collision between Holcim PRB (SUI) and Allagrande MAPEI Racing (ITA) moments after the start – both boats return to port for damage checks. All crew reported safe.
  • Biotherm (FRA) takes early lead, scoring first points at the Kiel Lighthouse gate, with Paprec Arkéa (FRA) in second.
  • Racing in 15-18 knot westerly breeze with spectacular foiling conditions.
  • Huge crowds and vibrant atmosphere at Ocean Live Park, including Sailor’s Parade.



Leg One of The Ocean Race Europe launched in brilliant sunshine and a brisk westerly breeze in Kiel, Germany, creating fast, flat-water foiling conditions in a 15-19 knot breeze. But there was a dramatic collision just minutes after the start between Switzerland’s Holcim PRB and Italy’s Allagrande MAPEI Racing. Both boats immediately turned back to port for damage assessment.


While those teams returned to Kiel to assess and begin repairs, Biotherm drew first blood to lead the IMOCA fleet to the Kiel Lighthouse scoring gate, securing the first two points of the race, with Paprec Arkéa close behind. Skippers had predicted an intense and tactical leg with lots of marine traffic and landmarks to navigate around Denmark.


Earlier, the teams took part in an inspiring edition of The Sailor’s Parade, walking through an enthusiastic crowd in Ocean Live Park before shifting to the pontoon for final interviews before departure.


Conditions are expected to be intense for the first 24 hours of the race with strong winds and fast boat speed until reaching the north of Denmark before easing.


Read more at www.theoceanrace.com