Boris Herrmann, the offshore sailor and skipper of Team Malizia, has been announced as the first headline speaker at the 2019 Peace and Sport International Forum, which begins on December 11 in Monte Carlo One, Monaco.

Boris Herrmann hit the world headlines recently when he sailed Greta Thunberg to the United Nations World Climate Summit in New York in the zero-carbon racing yacht, the Malizia II. He will give a masterclass on “Safeguarding our planet through sport” and will provide concrete input and recommendations for taking action through sport to safeguard populations and our planet.

The committed sailor has completed three circumnavigations of the world, one of them non-stop, and will soon be attempting this challenge single handed for the 2020 Vendée Globe, making him the first German to compete in the race. Besides sports competition, Malizia II aims to contribute to research, environmental protection and youth education. A sensor is attached to the boat which collects data on the temperature, the pH and salt levels and the carbon dioxide content of the water for marine research.

Boris Herrmann said: “It is exciting to have the opportunity to share the inspiring experience of Malizia II in its race to protect our planet. Through collective action and courageous leadership, sport has the power to inspire people to create sustainable changes. We are convinced that sport in general can raise awareness, and that the sport of sailing in particular, has a great influence on fighting for Climate Action Now. When ocean racing, we are performing in the most extreme elements nature has to offer, whilst also showcasing clean technologies in order to circumnavigate the world emission free. This is a race we must win.”

This year’s Forum will be a hub for over 600 key decision-makers including heads of state, strategic leaders from business and the sports world, Nobel Peace Prize Laureates, representatives from civil society and international organisations, and bright young talents, who will all embark on a journey to explore the theme “Investing in Peace, Acting through Sport”.

This 12th Peace and Sport International Forum will be held in the very latest conference centre in Monaco – the One Monte-Carlo – located in the heart of the Principality, on December 11-13. This edition will mark the 10th anniversary of the Champions for Peace club, paying tribute to 10 years of commitment of more than 100 high-level athletes.Peace and Sport is an international, neutral and independent organisation based in Monaco, which promotes peace using the power of sport. Founded in 2007 by Modern Pentathlon Olympic Medallist and World Champion Joël Bouzou, Peace and Sport enjoys the High Patronage of HSH Prince Albert.

PHOTO: Boris Hermann