Cardiff will bid to host a stopover on the 2017/18 Volvo Ocean Race.

The city council signed off plans last week to put the Welsh capital forward, alongside 30 other cities, to host the race in five years time.

The cost of hosting the event in the Welsh capital is estimated to be around £3 million and is subject to confirmation of financial support from the Welsh Government and Cardiff Harbour Authority.

That figure includes establishing a race village, media facilities, race management, marketing, sailing activities and entertainment for visitors during a likely two-week stopover event.

But, following the city’s successful hosting of Extreme Sailing Series this summer, the council pointed to Alicante – the race’s start point last year – benefiting to the tune of €89 million (£72million), with more than 800,000 spectators visiting the city.

The council’s report said: ‘If the bid for this race is successful, the event would expand Cardiff’s reputation as an event city by hosting one of the most important sailing events in the world.

‘It would also leave a legacy by providing an opportunity for many non-sailors to try the sport through a co-ordinated programme of sailing activities before, during and following the event.’

Picture courtesy of PAUL TODD/Volvo Ocean Race.

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