Marina de Lagos welcomes the 2026 Globe 5.80 Transat fleet as the city once again takes centre stage in international ocean sailing

Marina de Lagos is once again preparing to welcome an international ocean-sailing competition, hosting the participants in the 2026 edition of the McIntyre Globe 5.80 Transat. Lagos provides an ideal setting for the fleet and its skippers to prepare for this demanding adventure, which will test their sailing skills, endurance and self-reliance.

Sailed in yachts measuring just 5.80 metres in length, built to a one-design concept that embraces simplicity, accessibility and adventure, the Globe 5.80 Transat offers a distinctive approach to ocean racing. The event combines the technical challenge of offshore sailing with a strong human dimension, celebrating preparation, determination and the ability to take on the Atlantic in remarkably small yachts.

The programme in Lagos will culminate on Saturday, 31 October at 2 pm, when the fleet is scheduled to set off on the first leg towards Lanzarote in the Canary Islands. From there, competitors will continue their Atlantic adventure, with the second leg linking Lanzarote to Antigua.

An organiser with an outstanding international reputation
The Globe 5.80 Transat is organised by Ocean Frontiers, led by Don McIntyre, one of the leading figures in international ocean sailing and the founder of some of the sport's most recognised offshore competitions, including the Golden Globe Race and the Ocean Globe Race.

These events are renowned for their adventurous spirit and demanding nature, championing traditional sailing and testing competitors' skills and resilience. They attract sailors, support teams, partners and international media attention from across the world.

Hosting an event within this internationally recognised portfolio further enhances Lagos's global profile and strengthens its position as a destination for prestigious sailing competitions.

Lagos: a city connected to the sea and open to the world
The choice of Lagos as the starting point for this Atlantic adventure reflects the region's outstanding natural sailing conditions, the quality of its nautical facilities and the city's proven ability to host international sporting events.

Beyond its sporting significance, competitions of this scale provide an important boost to the local economy. The presence of sailors, teams, supporters and visitors generates activity across the marina, hotels, restaurants, retail businesses and nautical services, contributing to tourism development and the wider economic vitality of the city.

By welcoming another international competition associated with Don McIntyre's organisation, Marina de Lagos reinforces its position as a leading destination for ocean sailing and a meeting point for a truly international nautical community.

The start of the 2026 Globe 5.80 Transat will be another celebration of Lagos's historic relationship with the sea, giving residents and visitors the opportunity to witness the beginning of an extraordinary adventure as these small yachts head out to take on the vast Atlantic Ocean.

Come down to show them your support along the river while they sail out to sea!