Ericsson 1 2005-06

This edition of the Race was one of firsts: it was the first edition of the Race to be known as the Volvo Ocean Race. It was also the first time that the Race did not depart from or arrive at a UK port; and a new boat class was introduced: the Volvo Open 70.

On November 5, 2005 eight yachts departed from Vigo, Spain, and completed nine legs before finishing in the Swedish city of Gothenburg on June 15 the following year.

The race – which saw the first participation for future Race winner Torben Grael; and the return of US sailing legend Paul Cayard – was won by ABN AMRO I, a Dutch entry skippered by New Zealander  Mike Sanderson. The Swedish entry Ericsson 1 team finished fifth in the overall classification.

During Leg 7 of the Race, Dutch sailor Hans Horrevoets, 32, was swept overboard from ABN AMRO I sistership, ABN AMRO II. Although he was recovered from the water, attempts to resuscitate him were not successful.