From K-Challenge to Orient Express Racing Team

Ortwin, a trained lawyer and a pioneer of the Airbus programme at the end of the 1960s, became hooked on sailing and founded K-Yachting in 1989. The company specialised in importing and chartering racing yachts and, above all, in building innovative prototypes.
Stephan, a business school graduate, soon joined the family business. Over the years, the Kandlers have commissioned numerous boats and, following in the footsteps of Baron Bich, the father and son have provided French sailors with a structure and financing. From the Tour de France to the One Ton Cup, the pair were involved in many regattas, but their sights were always set on the America’s Cup.

And so, K-Challenge was born.

An entity dedicated to the quest for the oldest international sporting trophy in the world. In 2001, Stephan Kandler gave a press conference in Paris announcing his ambition to mount a French challenge for the next edition of the America’s Cup. Stephan led the project supported by Ortwin, while Dawn Riley with three America’s Cups behind her including a victory in 1992, was appointed Sports Director.

Six years later in Valencia, Spain, Areva Challenge, again led by Stephan, made up of nine nationalities and helmed by a young Sebastien Col, finished in 8th place.

The legal imbroglio between the Swiss and the Americans over the 33rd America’s Cup ­­- that culminated in a Deed of Gift match between the two nations - broke all momentum for the French project despite a substantial budget having been secured.

However, Kandlers don’t give up easily. Stephan stayed in touch with the world of sailing and is a fan of new technology. He kept a close eye on the America’s Cup and its evolution.

In 2021, convinced that the French have the credentials to take their place in this world of innovation, Stephan joined forces with Bruno Dubois, a man of many careers in the sailing world.

United by their conviction and tenacity, the two men are now at the head of Orient Express Racing Team, supported by Accor Group, Orient Express and ALL.COM and competing in the 37th America’s Cup.