The southern Chinese city of Sanya will be included on the next edition of the Volvo Ocean Race in 2014-15 which features a round-the-world team sailing event spread over a series of legs.

It will be the third time the race, which takes place every three years, includes a stop in China after Qingdao in 2008-09 and Sanya again in 2011-12.

"With two successful stops in China now behind us, it's hard to imagine a route without it," explained race chief Knut Frostad.

"China is very important to everyone involved in this event. We were given an exceptional welcome by Sanya in the last edition, with the stopover providing a unique take on the race, and it's gratifying to know we will be back to build on our legacy."

It will be the 12th edition of the race formerly known as the Whitbread Round the World Race.

AFP - Global Times