Genova hosts the Ocean Race Summit

On January 28, 2026, Genoa's historic Palazzo Ducale hosted The Ocean Race Summit Genova: Nudging the New Ocean Society, a participatory, youth-focused event that brought together over 200 political leaders, activists, scientists, sailors, creatives, and students to discuss the future of ocean health.

The Summit was conceived as a dynamic exchange, with live surveys, open-ended questions and co – creation moments that fostered direct dialogue between young people and decision makers. The day was hosted by actress and environmental activist Bailey Bass (Avatar: The Way of Water).

The event is part of the “blue week” promoted by The Ocean Race and the global Racing for the Ocean program, the round-the-world race's long-term commitment to protecting and restoring ocean health, combining elite sport, science, education, and advocacy.

The official opening of the meeting in the Hall of the Great Council was Genoa Mayor Silvia Salis, who emphasized the profound, historical, and cultural connection between the city and the sea, defined as part of the collective identity of the Genoese and a point of reference even when one is far away. The Mayor also emphasized her personal connection to The Ocean Race and announced the creation of a school for blue economy professions, to support young people and sustainable development, reiterating that protecting the sea is a civic, cultural, and economic responsibility.

The summit concluded by emphasizing that creating a new ocean society goes beyond mere awareness: it requires concrete involvement, trust in young people, and the commitment of all to ensure that skills and passions are put at the service of protecting and the future of the ocean.

Edited by Alessia Marciano