SWISS watch company Tag Heuer has sponsored the world's largest racing schooner for an undisclosed sum to compete for the Jules Verne Trophy, an 80-day, non-stop, unassisted round-the-world sailing race.

The winner will be the yacht that sets or beats the record of sailing around the world in less than 80 days.

The 44-metre Tag Heuer will make its attempt between January and April next year.