John Elkann: Ferrari is preparing to enter the world of competitive sailing

During today’s shareholders’ meeting in Amsterdam, Ferrari Chairman John Elkann officially announced the company’s upcoming entry into the world of competitive sailing, confirming a project already in an advanced stage of development—one that promises to redefine the boundaries of innovation, performance, and sustainability at sea.

“Enzo Ferrari was always looking for the next challenge, just like we are today,” said Elkann. “We are preparing to enter the world of sailing: the pursuit of peak performance at sea will open up new opportunities for innovation in technology, performance and sustainability. We are confident the expertise we gain will inspire our future racing and sports cars.”

This announcement opens a new frontier for the Prancing Horse, extending its pursuit of excellence into the domain of competitive sailing. In alignment with Ferrari’s goal of achieving carbon neutrality by 2030, the sailing project will serve as an ideal testing platform for sustainable technologies with reduced environmental impact—perfectly in line with the brand’s road-based green evolution.

As early as 2024, the name of Giovanni Soldini had already emerged as a key figure in the program. The renowned sailor was officially appointed Team Principal of Ferrari Vela, a role that puts him at the helm of developing a groundbreaking ocean-going yacht designed to take on world records and extreme challenges—most notably the Jules Verne Trophy, awarded for the fastest unassisted, non-stop circumnavigation of the globe under sail.

“I’m thrilled to begin this new adventure with Ferrari,” Soldini said when the collaboration was announced. “We’re working on a pioneering project with extraordinary technological potential that unites different worlds and top-tier expertise. Being part of the development of innovative, planet-friendly solutions with such an exceptional team is a truly unique experience.”

While the yacht remains strictly confidential, sources suggest it will be a 30-metre monohull equipped with next-generation foils, drawing inspiration from America’s Cup AC75 vessels but optimized for long-range ocean racing. The design has been entrusted to Guillaume Verdier, one of the world’s most innovative naval architects, while construction is underway at a shipyard in the province of Pisa, in partnership with leading Italian marine technology firms.

From a technical standpoint, the goal is to develop a high-performance and fully sustainable yacht that pushes the limits of offshore navigation. Photovoltaic systems, advanced composite materials, and automated onboard solutions will reflect Ferrari’s deep commitment to high-performance innovation.

With this venture, Ferrari once again confirms its ability to explore new technological frontiers while keeping extraordinary user experience at its core. As Elkann reiterated today:

“Offering an exceptional experience is just as important as delivering an exceptional product. We will continue to create more moments like this for our community in the future.”

The yacht’s launch is scheduled for 2026, but the spirit of the challenge is already alive—ushering in one of the most compelling and visionary chapters in international yachting: Ferrari powered by wind.

 

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