Dutch paints and coatings company AkzoNobel has been confirmed as the title sponsor of a team which will compete in the 2017-18 edition of the Volvo Ocean Race sailing event.
Team AkzoNobel becomes the first team to declare entry for the race, which will begin in Alicante, Spain in late 2017. Dutchman Simeon Tienpont will skipper the team.
“The Volvo Ocean Race offers an unparalleled storytelling and brand-building platform over a prolonged period of time,” Conrad Keijzer, an AkzoNobel Executive Committee member, said.
“The company can raise awareness for its capabilities; excite and captivate both new and existing audiences and customers; develop business opportunities; attract talent and create a sense of pride and excitement among employees.”
Team AkzoNobel has been formed with Dutch entries having lifted the trophy three times, in 1977-78, 1981-82 and 2005-06.
The route for the 2017-18 race was unveiled last week, with teams set to cover around 45,000 nautical miles – more than ever before. The Hague in the Netherlands will stage the race’s finale.