The Volvo Ocean Race has agreed a three-year partnership with the Yacht Racing Forum.
"We are delighted to welcome the Volvo Ocean Race as a long-term partner,” said Bernard Schopfer, the event’s CEO.
"We have been working hard at developing a new structure for the Forum, with a new team of dedicated people, new partners, a beautiful venue and an exciting programme. We regard this support from the Volvo Ocean Race as a strong mark of confidence, which we are proud of."
Knut Frostad, the outgoing CEO of the Volvo Ocean Race, has been an avid supporter of the Yacht Racing Forum since its debut in Monte Carlo in 2008.
He will once again be a speaker at this year's conference, looking back at what he has achieved as Volvo Ocean Race CEO over nearly eight years at the helm.
"The Forum is an important event for the international yacht racing community,” he said.
"It takes place out of the context of a race. People are therefore relaxed and accessible; they are available to network and do business.
“For example, the idea of the Volvo Ocean 65s used during the Volvo Ocean Race was born during the Forum in 2011 in Estoril, Portugal. I am convinced that the Forum will carry on generating new ideas and positive developments for the sport."
The Yacht Racing Forum this year will take place in Geneva, Switzerland, on December 7-8.
The event will attract some 300 people in one place at one time to do business and meet future clients: yacht clubs, athletes, sponsors, event organisers, designers, technical suppliers and anyone involved or just interested in yacht racing.
"Geneva is an excellent venue for the Yacht Racing Forum, located at the heart of Europe," said Karin Bäcklund, Commercial Director of the race.
"The new organisers of the Forum are determined to organise a great event, with a long-term vision, and we support this effort. There will be a strong Volvo Ocean Race delegation in Geneva this winter."