Argyll and Bute councillors to look at bid to bring Clipper Round the World Yacht Race back to Oban

Council chiefs could be set to bid to bring the Clipper Round the World Yacht Race back to Oban in two years’ time.

The event visited the town in July, with Argyll and Bute Council’s leader describing it as “an immense honour” for the area.

Councillors are now being invited to consider a proposal for the race to return to Oban in 2026, with private sponsorship to be sought by officers.

A report on the proposal will go before the full council at its meeting on Thursday, September 26.

Executive director Kirsty Flanagan said: “If the council agrees to the bid, officers will work to raise private sponsorship, where possible.

“Event Scotland, which was a previous funder, has requested a detailed feedback report from Argyll and Bute Council on the economic and cultural benefits derived from the 2024 event.

She added: “Over 252 crew and officials, with 600 family and friends got the chance to explore the town and surrounding areas of Argyll during ten-day of the Festival of the Sea.

“The economic and culture benefits derived from the 2024 event will be shared with elected members in due course.”

Council leader Jim Lynch (SNP, Oban South and the Isles) remarked in a separate report: “This was an immense honour for Argyll and Bute, to become the first ever Scottish home port in this amazing global challenge.

“I was in Oban on the first day the Clipper crews were in town, and the buzz and excitement already was incredible.

“On July 16, I joined others from the council to attend the Clipper awards ceremony in the Corran Halls. This was standing room only as the Clipper crews, their family and friends had the opportunity to come together and celebrate the crews’ amazing feats of endurance and sportsmanship.

“There was a wide range of events and activities on offer during Clipper’s visit and, while I chose to stay on dry land, I know that those who did take up the opportunity to tour and sail on the spectacular Clipper yachts, really enjoyed the experience.”