19891990 Whitbread Round the World Race

The 1989–90 Whitbread Round the World Race took place from Southampton to Southampton between 1989 and 1990, featuring multiple yacht classes. Steinlager 2, skippered by Peter Blake, won the race convincingly, becoming the first boat since 1981–82 to win every leg in its division. This dominance highlighted significant disparities in boat size and performance, leading to the creation of a committee to develop a standardized Whitbread class boat for future races. The vast differences in speed and capability among the yachts resulted in smaller boats finishing legs up to ten days behind the winners. Steinlager 2 completed the race in 128 days, while the last finisher trailed by 52 days.

The race also saw the debut of the first all-woman crew aboard Tracy Edwards' Maiden, which competed in Division D and secured two leg victories despite having a smaller boat than many male-led teams. Tracy Edwards was recognized as yachtsman of the year and appointed an MBE for her achievements. A documentary about the team's participation was released in 2018.

Tragedy struck during the race when Anthony Philips of Creighton's Naturally was swept overboard and could not be revived, leading to a burial at sea. Additionally, Martela OF capsized after losing its keel during leg 4, but the crew was safely rescued by Charles Jourdan and Merit. Union Bank of Finland also paused racing to assist in the rescue efforts.