Mondrian sails on board Team Brunel in the Volvo Ocean Race

Mondrian sails on board Team Brunel © Ydwer van der Heide / Team Brunel

On 24 June 2018, the eyes of all sailing fans around the world are focused on The Netherlands. On that day, the seven competing teams in the legendary Volvo Ocean Race will finish in the The Hague, the Ultimate Destination.

The Dutch Team Brunel will set course with a brand-new sail that is inspired by the iconic works of Dutch world-renowned artist Piet Mondrian from Cape Town onwards. With this 'Mondrian sail' The Hague ends its successful Mondrian year in style and starts the celebrations around The Hague's 200 years existence as seaside resort.

Adventurous and innovative

Team Brunel's Dutch skipper Bouwe Bekking is excited about his 'new acquisition': "Mondrian was a visionary artist. Way ahead of his time. He was stunning in simplicity and yet his work was so adventurous. He dared to innovate, to challenge, to think different. Those are qualities that also appeal to every racing sailor. We are glad to have Mondrian on board. We look forward to setting the 24-hour world record with this new sail!"

Mondrian year great success

The iconic visual language of Piet Mondrian was shown in various locations in The Hague last year. From the city hall to large hotels, from the Hofvijver to shops throughout the city: everywhere red, blue and yellow could be seen. Attention was drawn to the fact that one hundred years ago the influential art movement 'De Stijl' (The Style) was founded with Piet Mondrian as most important member.

The Hague has extensively communicated that the largest Mondrian collection in the world can be seen permanently in the Gemeente Museum Den Haag. Last year's campaign can be called a resounding success, because many national and international visitors visited the city and the museum. The campaign has shown that the artist Mondrian connects and inspires. Mondrian has been discovered, embraced by young and old, and is clearly connected to the city of The Hague forever.

Finish Volvo Ocean Race during 200 years seaside resort

As a result of the celebrations around The Hague's 200 years existence as seaside resort the city promises a festive year with the theme 'Party by the Sea'. There is an extensive program of activities with the finish of the Volvo Ocean Race as absolute highlight.

Karsten Klein, alderman of the municipality of The Hague: "There is no better way to put The Hague and its harbour in Scheveningen in the spotlight. With this initiative - a Mondrian sail for Team Brunel - The Hague shows that it is a city with many faces and therefore the Ultimate Destination for the Volvo Ocean Race family, day visitors and tourists. Two of the different elements, art and sports, that make the city so popular join forces."