Team Francesca Clapcich, powered by 11th Hour Racing, has confirmed its crew for the Ocean Race Atlantic 2026. Skipper Francesca Clapcich will be joined by Alberto Bona, Elodie-Jane Mettraux and Will Harris. Meredith Rodgers will sail as onboard reporter.
The 3,000-nautical-mile race will start from New York on 1 September and finish in Lorient.
Clapcich said team selection focused on experience and cohesion. “I really wanted to build a team with a mix of different experiences,” she said. She added that strong personal connections were also key. “We’re all very good friends… that was definitely part of the goal.”
Mettraux, who has raced previously with Clapcich, said the event offers new opportunities. “It’s a real privilege to be racing these incredible boats,” she said. Bona brings extensive offshore experience from solo and short-handed racing. “It’s a great opportunity to learn the complexities of the IMOCA world quickly,” he said. Harris, who has previously raced aboard the yacht, said familiarity will be an advantage. “It’s a great chance to race again on a boat I know well,” he said.
The IMOCA previously set a 24-hour distance record in 2023. Clapcich said the transatlantic route will present specific challenges. “Sailing from west to east brings a completely different set of challenges,” she said.
All teams will take part in an onboard ocean data programme during the race. Organisers expect a competitive fleet for the inaugural event.
