In May 2027, Como will host the European Qualifier of the Monaco Energy Boat Challenge World Series. Student-led university teams will compete in the Energy Class, racing zero-emission boats on identical catamaran hulls for the chance to qualify for the Monaco World Final. This international event brings together engineering, clean propulsion, innovation and competitive racing on the shores of Lake Como, one of Europe’s most celebrated waterfront settings.
Europe’s next generation, racing the future of clean mobility.
The European Qualifier is Europe’s gateway to the Monaco World Final. In Como, university teams design, build and race their own zero-emission boats same hulls, same conditions, one goal: a place in Monaco. Engineering tested in the open, where the best idea earns its result on the water.
This isn’t only about speed. It’s about efficiency, reliability and the drive to turn bold technology into real solutions for the sea. Built by the next generation. Powered by innovation. Driven by sustainability.
Ideas, proven on the water. Clean propulsion, electric, solar, hydrogen and smart energy — tested in real racing, not on paper.
Same hulls. Equal odds.Teams from across Europe and beyond, one rulebook — where the best engineering wins, not the biggest budget.
Bigger than the race. Students, universities and industry build a network that lasts long after the finish line.
Tomorrow's fleet starts here. A direct line from student innovation to the yachts and shipyards of the future.
In the Energy Class, every team starts with the same foundation: a standardized catamaran hull provided by the Yacht Club de Monaco. From there, each team must design and build its own cockpit, propulsion system and energy strategy. The objective is clear: create the most efficient and reliable zero-emission boat possible. Teams can explore electric propulsion, solar energy, hydrogen and other clean technologies while respecting strict technical and safety rules.
The European Qualifier is more than a race. It’s a public event watch the boats fly, meet the teams, walk the paddocks and get close to the technology shaping the future of clean boating. From the start line to the dock, from technical talks to live demos, Como becomes a meeting point for sport, innovation, education and industry.
Endurance, manoeuvrability and speed, the Energy Class racing live on Lake Como.
Walk the team paddock and see the boats, engineers and technology up close.
Open conferences on clean propulsion, financing and the future of maritime mobility.
Student engineers and industry experts share the tech behind the prototypes.
The European Qualifier is designed for student-led university teams ready to push the limits of sustainable marine engineering. Each team brings together talented students in naval architecture, mechanical engineering, electrical systems, energy management, design and project coordination. Their mission is to transform ideas into operational boats, test their technologies on the water and compete for a place at the Monaco World Final.
The European Qualifier is part of the Monaco Energy Boat Challenge World Series, an international initiative dedicated to alternative propulsion, sustainable yachting and cleaner marine technologies. By bringing the challenge to Come, the European Qualifier connects the Indo-Pacific region with a global network of universities, innovators, shipyards, startups and maritime industry leaders.
The best-performing teams will have the opportunity to continue their journey towards Monaco and present their work on an international stage.
Follow the latest updates from the European Qualifier, including team announcements, programme details, partner news, race information and media highlights.
