Advancing Diversity, Inclusion, and Excellence in Offshore Sailing
A pioneering initiative designed to promote diversity, inclusion, and sustainable excellence in offshore sailing.
Meet Our Skipper
Francesca Clapcich joins the project as skipper. The Italian sailor is one of the world’s most versatile sailors, having raced at two Olympic Games, twice around the world, is part of the US America’s Cup Team, and also has ambitions to race in the 2028 Vendée Globe, solo, non-stop around the world.
“Francesca will be an exceptional skipper for the UpWind project,” commented Cécile Andrieu, Racing Director at MerConcept. “She is a true trailblazer – the first Italian to win The Ocean Race – and she will bring skill, passion, and determination to the helm of our team. She is also a champion for diversity and inclusion, and under her leadership, we will break down barriers and work together to devise a sailing community that is welcoming and open to everyone.”
Our Team
Mid April 2024, after receiving 120 applicants, MerConcept and 11th Hour Racing hosted the selection of UpWind by MerConcept in Concarneau, Britanny, France.
After four days of physical and mental tests, individual interviews, and on-water racing, seven female athletes have been selected to join the very first UpWind by MerConcept racing team.
Our Mission
In its first year, UpWind by MerConcept will provide women with opportunities for high-level performance offshore racing, both on the water and on the shore team. Our 2024 goal is to recruit six women to join our multihull training program, while also fostering a diverse team to support their racing program and facilitate learning within the offshore sailing ecosystem. We also have the ambition of accompanying one of them to the starting line of the Route du Rhum – Destination Guadeloupe 2026.
Our Platform
Aligned with the Ocean Fifty boat and circuit, the project finds a natural ally in advancing the sport’s competitive landscape and opening doors to under-represented talent.
MerConcept’s involvement reflects a strategic commitment to diversity, enhancing the competitive landscape while ensuring accessibility to a greater number of sailors.
MerConcept’s Commitment
MerConcept, as an entreprise à mission (a legal entity in France, similar to BCorp status, where a business pursues predefined social and environmental objectives along with tailored sustainability targets), stands as a leader in the sailing industry, embedding sustainability, social responsibility, and environmental principles into its operations. The launch of this new Ocean Fifty project aligns with these core values, demonstrating a dedication to progress beyond the racecourse, catalyzing change within the sailing community for a more inclusive and sustainable future for everyone.
Working in partnership
11th Hour Racing joins UpWind by MerConcept as the Founding Sponsor. 11th Hour Racing is a global-reaching organization based in Newport, R.I., USA, that advocates for sustainability and ocean health, working to mobilize sports, maritime, and coastal communities with an innovative approach to inspire solutions for the ocean. The organization harnesses the power of sport to promote collaborative, systemic change through three primary areas of engagement: Sponsorships, Grantees, and Ambassadors.
Three Pillars, One Mission
Empowering talent
Propel talented women to the forefront of offshore racing, with the goal of a female skipper leading a competitive multihull in La Route du Rhum 2026.
Recruit, develop, and train a diverse and active squad of female sailors to race in future Jules Verne Trophy crews.
Diversity and Inclusion
Recruit a shore team from diverse backgrounds, offering professional experience to talented technicians.
Establish networks and mentorship programs to guide and support our team
Sustainability at Sea
Lead by example in waste management, materials, and carbon footprint reduction, partnering with companies committed to sustainable development.
Develop our boat as a test platform for carbon waste management and alternative materials.
Join the Movement
Apply to Join the Crew
We are seeking passionate individuals who share our commitment to diversity, inclusion, and sustainable excellence in offshore sailing. Apply now to become a part of UpWind by MerConcept.