On March 4, 10 yachts of the 2025–26 Clipper Round the World Yacht Race docked at the Qingdao Olympic Sailing Center, marking the 20th anniversary of the city's partnership with the global sailing event.

In2006, Qingdao became the first Asian host city of the Clipper Race and introduced its own entry, Qingdao. That year, Guo Chuan became the first Chinese sailor to compete in the race. Since then, Qingdao has developed alongside the event. Guo went on to set the world record for a solo n111 circumnavigation in a 40-foot yacht in 2013.

In 2014, Song Kun, a Qingdao native, became the first Chinese woman to complete a full Clipper circumnavigation. Today, Lan Jun, another Qingdao sailor, serves as a crew ambassador on the current voyage.

Beyond racing, Qingdao has become a key manufacturing base for Clipper yachts. Twelve 70-foot boats built in the city debuted in the 2013–14 season, and a new fleet of 14 next-generation 72-foot vessels is under construction for the 2027 season.

On March 7, the Clipper China Qingdao Sailing Academy opened on Starry Island, marking the first Clipper training center in China.

Over the past two decades, Qingdao has developed nearly 100 professional sailors through its ambassador program. The partnership has also boosted marine tourism, with sailing clubs and maritime sports now thriving across the city.

As Sir Robin Knox-Johnston, founder of the Clipper Race, stated that Qingdao has become an integral part of the race's story. For Qingdao, the next chapter has only just begun.

As a coastal city, Qingdao in Shandong province is known for its beaches and numerous water sports. [Photo/IC]